Alabama Boating Laws and Regulations
All persons 12 years of age and older who operate a motorized vessel on Alabama
waters are required to have their Alabama Vessel License (also referred to as the
Alabama Boat Operator's Certificate, which appears as a "V" class on your driver's
license). The operator certification must be in possession at the time of operation.
Exemptions
- Holder of a valid United States Coast Guard Motorboat Operator’s License.
- Person submitting a valid certificate of successful completion of an Alabama Marine
Police Division approved boating course.
- Any boat operator who was born prior to April 28, 1954.
Many boating fatalities occur because boaters aren't educated about boating safety.
The Alabama Marine Police believe that an educated boater is a safer boater.
NOTE: The legal age to operate a vessel alone
is 14 years old.
Where can I get my Alabama Boat Operator's Certificate?
You can take your safe boating exam directly on the Internet at
BoaterExam.com™. Once you pass the exam, your boat operator's certificate
will be mailed to you. You can then bring your boat operator's certificate to your
local Department of Public Safety, Driver's License Examiner's Office, and they
will endorse your driver's license.
Is there a study guide?
All the required study material for your
online Boater Exam is available for free online. We encourage you to
study the material fully before attempting the exam.
Where can I get more information about Alabama's boating laws and regulations?
Answers to most of your questions can be found on our Frequently
Asked Questions page. You may also visit
Outdoor Alabama or you can contact us
for additional information.
Get your Alabama Boating License Online!