Take a Boater Education Class
Any person born on or after January 1, 1988 must complete a NASBLA approved boating education course before operating any vessel propelled by a motor of 10 HP or greater.
There are several ways to take a NASBLA approved Boating Education Course, all of which are listed and linked below.
Instructor Led Courses
There is no minimum age requirement, however, coursework is at a sixth grade level, and a comprehensive written exam must be completed unassisted.
If you have any questions about boating safety courses offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, call 800-336-BOAT.
US Power Squadron Public Boating Classes
If you have any questions about boating safety courses offered by the U.S. Power Squadron, call 888-FOR-USPS.
US Powerboating - The best on-the-water powerboat instruction available
Online Courses
The websites listed below for online boating safety courses are not administered by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Please be advised, the commission only maintains records for courses offered through our agency. If you choose to complete your boating safety training through a source other than the commission, you will be responsible for obtaining the necessary documentation to prove successful completion of the course through the course provider.
The courses listed below meet all education certification requirements for North Carolina:
Military and first responders are eligible for a boating safety discount when completing the Recademics Boating Online Course.
