How to Get a Boating License

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How to Get a Boating License

If you would like to operate a boat in New Jersey, you will first need to get licensed and certified! We hope you find the below information helpful. If you have any questions about boating in New Jersey, please feel free to contact us.

Class Dates 2024*

  • January 14th (Sunday)
  • February 11th (Sunday)
  • March 10th (Sunday)
  • April 7th (Sunday)
  • May 11th (Sunday)
  • June 2nd (Sunday)
  • July 14th (Sunday)
  • August 4th (Sunday)
  • September 8th (Sunday)
  • October 6th (Sunday)
  • November 3rd (Sunday)
  • December 1st (Sunday)

*Please Bring With you to Class:

  • Photo ID
  • Cash or Check for remaining balance
  • Self-Addressed and Stamped Envelope


Boating Laws in New Jersey

New Jersey law requires that all operators of motorized boats obtain a boating license and a boating safety certificate before they can operate in non-tidal waters. Non-tidal waters include lakes, creeks, and rivers that are not affected by tidal conditions. Even out-of-state residents must carry written proof of their successful completion of a boating safety course in order to legally operate a boat in New Jersey.

A boating license and a boating safety certificate are not to be confused, and both are required in New Jersey. Fortunately, these credentials are not hard to obtain.

Boating Safety Certificate

New Jersey requires all boaters aged 16 or older to carry a Boating Safety Certificate. To earn this certificate, you must complete an approved boating safety course. These courses are offered by the U.S. Coast Guard, the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, and various other organizations. Once you have successfully completed the course, you will be issued a boating safety certificate. This certificate does not expire.

Boating License

A New Jersey boating license is an endorsement issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, and attached to the driver's licenses or state ID cards of residents aged 16 years and older. It is not a substitute for a boating safety certificate, but an additional requirement for those looking to operate motorized boats in non-tidal waters. To obtain a boating license, you must visit a New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission office and provide the following:

  • Your Boating Safety Certificate
  • Identifying documents
  • Payment of the license fee

Keep in mind that your New Jersey boating license will need to be renewed at the same time as your driver's license or state ID card. However, you will not need to retake the boating safety course in order to renew an expired license. Just hold onto your certificate as proof of your successful completion of the course.