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 West Virginia including navigation rules, safety equipment, handling emergencies, and protecting the environment.
3-5
Hours to Complete
5
Lessons
60
Final Exam Questions
35
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 West Virginia boating safety education certificate?
Enroll yourself in a Boating Safety Course from the Course Catalog.
Study and pass the Boating Safety Course.
Print out your certificate of completion.
1
Enroll
2
Take Course
3
Pass Exam
4
Print Certificate
Age Requirements:
In West Virginia, all persons born after December 31, 1986 must complete a boating education course before operating a motorboat or personal watercraft.
Motor-Powered Vessels:
No one under 15 years of age may operate a watercraft in West Virginia except those children aged 12 to 15 that are operating under the direct supervision of an adult.
If a child aged 12-15 is operating a boat with a motor of less than 10 horsepower (hp), then direct adult supervision is not required.
No one under that age of 12 may operate a watercraft.
Personal Watercraft (PWC):
Children aged 12 to 15 may operate personal watercraft, only if under the direct supervision of an adult.
Youth 16 and older may operate a PWC without supervision, provided they have met the education requirements above.
A person must be 18 years of age or older to rent a PWC.
Other Information:
All persons born after December 31, 1986 must complete a boating education course before operating a motorboat or personal watercraft in West Virginia. These operators shall show the certificate on demand of any West Virginia Conservation Officer or other law enforcement officer authorized to enforce West Virginia boating laws. The certificate must have been obtained by satisfactorily completing a course of instruction in boating safety education approved by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources or by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). The BoatU.S. Boating Safety Certificate is recognized by West Virginia, NASBLA and the U.S. Coast Guard.
Frequently Asked Questions
For all questions about your state’s Free Boating Safety Course, visit our Support Center.