2025 Law Changes: New York (all operators), California (phase-in complete), and Minnesota (expanded) all changed their requirements in 2025. If you boat in these states, click through for the current rules.
States With New 2025 Requirements
2025 — All Operators
New York
ALL operators now need a certificate regardless of age. First offense: $100.
2025 — Phase-In Complete
California
Full phase-in complete. All motorized vessel operators need a CA Boater Card.
2025 — Expanded
Minnesota
Expanded requirements effective July 1, 2025.
Browse All 50 States
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California 2025
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota 2025
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York 2025
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
States With No Mandatory Education Requirement
Six states have no mandatory boater education requirement as of 2025: Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Federal Coast Guard equipment and safety regulations still apply in these states.
Disclaimer: State requirements change frequently. Always verify with your state's official boating authority before operating a vessel. BoaterCard.info is not affiliated with any state agency.