Boater Card Rules

All states

Boating license rules in Florida

Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 who operates a boat with an engine of 10 horsepower or more must complete an approved course and obtain the card.1

The details

Engine size covered
10 horsepower or more1
Cards from other states
A nonresident with proof of completing a NASBLA approved boater safety course, plus photo ID, is exempt.2
Exemptions
Exemptions include USCG licensed masters, operators on a private lake or pond, and nonresidents with NASBLA course proof. Visitors may rent with a temporary certificate.2

The official pages we read do not say: personal watercraft (jet skis), minimum age to operate, card and course cost. Ask the agency.

The rules are set by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Sources

  1. Boating Safety Education Identification Card, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, checked 1 November 2026
  2. FAQs About Boating Safety Education Requirements, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, checked 1 November 2026

Checked 1 November 2026. "Secondary" marks a source we used only because the official page could not be read.