NYS Boating Certification Required in 2025

Under New York State law, all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, will be required to have a safety certificate as of 2025. There are limited exceptions listed on the state’s FAQs: https://parks.ny.gov/recreation/boating/frequently-asked-questions.aspx.

The law is meant to protect all aboard your boat as well as those on other vessels you may encounter. Per the US Coast Guard, where instruction was known, 75% of deaths occurred on boats where the operator did not receive boating safety instruction.

New York’s certification is issued upon successful completion of an approved in-class or virtual eight-hour boating safety course covering critical boating knowledge, reducing risks on the water, and what to expect as a skipper. Currently, acceptable courses include those offered by New York State Parks, the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, America’s Boating Club (formerly Power Squadrons), Boat US, US Powerboating, and private boating education providers. It is the boater’s responsibility to verify that the provider and course meet state standards.

Upon successfully completing a state-approved course, a certificate will issue or an anchor added to your official state driver’s license. Boaters should note that the eight-hour course, while educational, is just one step in the knowledge needed to be responsible vessel operators. Most course providers offer additional education, including vital hands-on experience.