Boating Home Study Course Available
Thursday, April 08, 2010
Education
State law requires youngsters 13 and 14 years old to have a motorboat operator’s certificate while piloting a motorboat without an adult on board. This includes operation of all motorboats, as well as personal watercraft, like a jet ski, with a motor greater than 10 horsepower.

The certificate can be obtained through a course, available free at all FWP offices, that consists of a 71-page safe-boating manual, a handbook, test, and a registration card. Boaters of all ages will find the course valuable.

Family members who take the course now can be sure they comply with state and other laws when boating season is in full swing. Those 13 years of age and older who pass the exam will receive a certificate.

Adults may find the Montana boating-course certificate useful when boating for extended periods in other states where adults are required to take a boating course.

No one 12 or younger can operate a motorboat alone rated at more than 10 horsepower. An adult, 18 years or older, must be on board. There are no certification requirements for youth age 15 or older.

After completing the home study course, students return the test, workbook and registration card to the FWP Helena headquarters office. A motorboat operator’s certificate will be sent back to students with a passing score. The boat operator must carry the certificate whenever driving a motorboat or jet ski.

Alternative training opportunities include taking an online course from one of the four Montana approved boat education vendors. To check out the online courses go to the FWP Web site at fwp.mt.gov on the Education page and choose Outdoor Education. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in several Montana communities offers classroom courses listed at www.mtcgaux.com

For more information, contact Liz Lodman at 406-444-2615.