Free Colorado State Boating Safety Course
Recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard, approved by NASBLA, and by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
State Approved
About the Course
What is the course about and why do I need it?
This free online course teaches you everything you need to operate a boat safely and legally in Colorado including navigation rules, safety equipment, handling emergencies, and protecting the environment.
For 14 and 15 year old boaters and PWC operators, the BoatUS Foundation”s Online Course is NOT approved by Colorado Parks and Wildlife to satisfy the mandatory education requirements. However, Colorado Parks and Wildlife does approve this course for other operators.
2-4
Hours to Complete
5
Lessons
60
Final Exam Questions
37
Approved States
learn online at your own pace
What is the format of the course?
You’ll learn through interactive lessons, videos, and quizzes, then pass a final exam to earn your state-approved boating safety certificate.
Complete the course at your own pace and gain the skills and confidence to get out on the water.
State Education Requirements
How do I get a Colorado boating safety education certificate?
After you complete the course you will be issued a paper copy of your Certificate of Completion. This certificate can be used immediately after you complete the course.
1
Enroll
2
Take Course
3
Pass Exam
4
Print Certificate
Do I need to take this course?
Boating education is mandatory for operators under 16 years of age (persons over the age of 16 may boat without restrictions). A person who is 14 or 15 years of age must take a boating safety course approved by the Colorado State Parks and must keep proof of course completion with them at all times while operating a motorboat or PWC.
Persons under the age of 14 may not operate motorboats or PWCs at all.
The BoatU.S. Online Safety Course does not authorize 14 and 15 year olds to operate motorboats or PWCs.
Other course information in Colorado
Anyone may take the BoatU.S. Foundation”s Free Online Boating Safety course as practice or to receive a potential discount on boat or PWC marine insurance. Colorado boaters who are 14 or 15 years old must complete a proctored course approved by Colorado Parks and Wildlife in order to operate on the waters of the state of Colorado.
Frequently Asked Questions
For all questions about your state’s Free Boating Safety Course, visit our Support Center.