Free Florida State Boating Safety Course
The BoatUS Foundation’s Online Course is the only FREE Online Boating Safety Course approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
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 Florida including navigation rules, safety equipment, handling emergencies, and protecting the environment.
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 Florida boating safety education certificate?
If you prefer to receive a one-time-only, plastic version of your Florida Boater Card, check the corresponding box at the bottom of your profile form before you complete the course. Allow 10 weeks to receive your plastic card. Otherwise, Florida will email your permanent, electronic card within 98 hours of course completion.
If you have questions about your card, please reach out to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission directly at bobbercard@myfwc.com.
1
Enroll
2
Take Course
3
Pass Exam
4
Print Certificate
Do I need to take this course?
In Florida, anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, who operates a vessel powered by 10 horsepower or more must pass an approved boater safety course and have in his/her possession photographic identification and a boater safety identification card issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
A person is exempt from this requirement if there is a person on board who is not affected by this law or is at least 18 years of age and holds a boater education I.D. card.
This person must be attendant to and take responsibility for the safe operation of the vessel and for any violation that occurs during the operation.
How do I get a Florida boating safety education certificate?
If you prefer to receive a one-time-only, plastic version of your Florida Boater Card, check the corresponding box at the bottom of your profile form before you complete the course. Allow 10 weeks to receive your plastic card. Otherwise, Florida will email your permanent, electronic card within 98 hours of course completion.
If you have questions about your card, please reach out to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission directly at bobbercard@myfwc.com.
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
620 S. Meridian Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600
Frequently Asked Questions
For all questions about your state’s Free Boating Safety Course, visit our Support Center.