Boating License FAQ's

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Do I need a Boating License in CT?
A Boating License in CT is actually called a Boating Certificate. To legally operate any boat with an engine (even a dinghy), or a sailboat 19 1/2' or longer, you need a Safe Boating Certificate or Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation. To operate a Personal Watercraft, you need a Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation.

How do I get my Boating Certificate in CT?
To get your Boating Certificate you have to take a DEEP approved Boating Safety Course and pass the CT State Exam. Courses are required to be a minimum of 8 hours. After passing the exam you will be able to go online and print your Certificate. Go to our Boating Class Dates page for a schedule of upcoming classes.

Where do I take the course to get my Boating Certificate?
Green Marine Education offers the CT approved Safe Boating Class, including the exam, online. We also offer in person private classes. Please go to our Boating Class Dates page to sign up for one of our upcoming online classes. You can also visit our Private Boating Classes page to learn more about how to take a class, in person, at home.

Can I take a CT Safe Boating Course online?
Yes, we are now allowed to offer the CT Safe Boating class online.

What is the difference between a Safe Boating Certificate and a Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation?
A Safe Boating Certificate will allow you to operate boats only. A Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation will allow you to operate Boats and "Jet Skis". A Green Marine Education Boating Safety Class qualifies you for both.

What is the difference between a Boat and a Personal Watercraft?
A personal watercraft is a vessel that the operator sits or stands on rather than in. Think of it like a motorcycle vs. a car.

Is a "Jet Ski" a Personal Watercraft?
Yes, Jet Ski, Sea-Doo and Waverunner are brand names. They are all Personal Watercraft (PWC).

What are the age restrictions to operate a Boat or Personal Watercraft?
Children under 12 can operate a boat with up to a 10 hp motor by themselves. For boats with a motor larger than 10 hp, they must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 18 who also has their Boat or PWC Certificate.

To operate a Personal Watercraft by yourself you must be at least 16 years old. If you are younger than 16 years old you must be accompanied on board by an adult over 18 who also has their Personal Watercraft Certificate.

How old do you have to be to take a Boating Course?
Anybody who can comprehend the material and pass the exam is welcome to take the class and qualify for their Boating Certificate. Children typically start around the age of 10.

What are the requirements to tow a waterskiier in CT?
To operate a vessel or Personal Watercraft that is towing a skier, tube, or has anyone riding the wake of the vessel, you must be over the age of 16 and have a Connecticut Safe Waterskiing Endorsement. A Safe Waterskiing Endorsement is included with all Green Marine Education classes.

Can a Boaters Certificate or License from another state be used in CT?
Connecticut has reciprocity with Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island and New Hampshire.

Does Connecticut charge to get a Boating License?
CT charges a one-time fee of $50 for Boating Certificates.

Do I have to renew my boating license every year?
No. Your Boating Certificate is good for life. You only pay for it once.

Can I prepare for the Boating Safety Class ahead of time?
Yes! To prepare for the class ahead of time, you can go to the BoatU.S. Online Course website. That should help get you acquainted with the material you'll be learning in class.

What if I don't pass the exam?
The vast majority of our students pass the exam the first time they take it. If you don't, you can come back to any Green Marine Education boating class and retake the exam at no charge.

How do I get my Conservation ID Number?
You can get your Conservation ID number by going to Connecticut's Online Sportsmen Licensing System and following the instructions provided to you there. The online licensing system is managed by the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), not Green Marine Education. A link to the Online Sportsmen Licensing "Frequently Asked Questions" is available here for your convenience.  You can also call the DEEP at 860-434-8638.

How do I get my Boating Certificate after the class?
After successfully completing the class, students can go directly to the CT DEEP website and print their certificate.