Free Montana State Boating Safety Course
The BoatUS Foundation’s Online Course is the only FREE Online Boating Safety Course approved by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Park.
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 Montana 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 Montana 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 Montana, all motorboat operators aged 13 – 14 must successfully pass a state approved boating course or equivalency exam.
Children 12 years old or younger may not operate a motorboat or personal watercraft powered by a motor greater than 10 horsepower (hp) unless accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older.
Youths 13 and 14 years of age may not operate those vessels without possessing a valid Montana motorboat operator’s certificate or evidence of completing an approved boating safety course, or unless accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older.
There are no mandatory educational requirements for persons 15 years old and up. However, a person must be 18 years or older to rent a motorboat or personal watercraft powered by a motor rated at more than 10 horsepower.
Other Information:
Boaters may complete either an approved proctored or non proctored boating safety course for certification. Montana accepts the BoatU.S. Online Boating Safety Course for these State Education requirements.
For a home-study course offered by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Department, contact your regional office for the Department. Persons 13 years of age or older who successfully complete the course will receive a Montana motorboat operators certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions
For all questions about your state’s Free Boating Safety Course, visit our Support Center.