Cross any waterway and take a glance at dozens of boats out on the water. One of the advantages of living in Palm Beach County is the ability to hop on a boat and get out on the water, enjoying the sunshine and beautiful weather. Boating is serious business. Florida does not have a “boating license” per se. Florida does have a Boater Safety Identification Card

Since 2010, the state of Florida requires that any person who wishes to operate a vessel of more than ten horsepower or more and is born after January 1st, 1988, must pass and complete a boater safety course. The course can either be done in person or online.

The Boater Safety Identification Card states that the course has been accomplished. Florida does not require a follow-up or a renewal requirement, once the card is issued the card it is valid for life. However, the state recommends boaters stay up to date and review the local boating rules and regulations.

The Boating Safety Courses range in price. Once the course is completed and the exam is passed, a Temporary Boating Certificate will be issued upon completion of the course. The Temporary Boating Certificate is effective immediately, and your Boater Safety Education Identification Card will be mailed in the following days.

To view the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission-approved Boater Safety Courses for the state, click here.