Free North Carolina State Boating Safety Course
The BoatUS Foundation’s Online Course is the only FREE Online Boating Safety Course approved by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources 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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina boating safety education certificate?
After you complete the course you will be issued a printable copy of your certificate that you can print yourself and use immediately.
You will also have the option of ordering a North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission approved, waterproof plastic card for $15. Please allow 2-3 weeks for your card to arrive.
1
Enroll
2
Take Course
3
Pass Exam
4
Print Certificate
Do I need to take this course?
Any person born on or after January 1, 1988 must successfully complete a NASBLA approved boating education course before operating any vessel propelled by a motor of 10 HP or greater.
North Carolina has the following restrictions for the operators of personal watercraft:
- No person under 14 years of age may operate a PWC.
- A person at least 14 years of age but younger than 16 years of age may operate a PWC in public waters if they are accompanied by a person at least 18 years of age who is in compliance with the state’s boating education requirements, or the person possesses ID with proof of age and boating safety certification or card indicating the satisfactory completion of a NASBLA boating safety education course.
- A person 16 years of age or older must comply with the mandatory boater education requirements for all vessels of 10 HP or greater before operating a PWC.
- The owner of a PWC must not knowingly allow a child under the age of 16 operate their craft except as provided above.
What if I’m certified in another state?
Those who possess a U.S. Coast Guard operator’s license, temporary operator’s certificate, renter’s or lease agreement, or are a resident of another state or country operating on the waters of North Carolina for less than 90 days are exempt from the education requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
For all questions about your state’s Free Boating Safety Course, visit our Support Center.