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Boating requirements · Maryland
Boating license requirements in Maryland
Maryland requires boater education for most operators. Anyone born on or after July 1, 1972 must possess a certificate of boating safety education to operate…
Last verified: June 11, 2026Source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Natural Resources Police
Maryland requires boater education for most operators. Anyone born on or after July 1, 1972 must possess a certificate of boating safety education to operate any motorized vessel — including a personal watercraft — on Maryland waters. The certificate is valid for life.
Maryland boating license at a glance
| Who needs a boater education card | Anyone born on or after July 1, 1972 must possess a Certificate of Boating Safety Education to operate any numbered or documented motorized vessel (including PWC) on Maryland waters. |
|---|---|
| Minimum age to operate | PWC operators must be 16+ (under 16 may not operate a PWC even with a cert). Under 16 operating a motorized vessel 11 ft or longer without a cert must be supervised by an 18+ cert-holder (or someone born before July 1, 1972). |
| Typical course cost | free options available; optional waterproof plastic card $15 |
| Issuing / regulatory agency | Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Natural Resources Police |
| Card validity | Lifetime — good for life. |
Do you need a boating license in Maryland?
Maryland requires boater education for most operators. Anyone born on or after July 1, 1972 must possess a certificate of boating safety education to operate any motorized vessel — including a personal watercraft — on Maryland waters. The certificate is valid for life.
Born on/after July 1, 1972 = required; born before = exempt.
What boating courses are accepted in Maryland?
Maryland accepts NASBLA-approved boating safety courses or an equivalent exam. Approved courses are offered by the Natural Resources Police, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the BoatUS Foundation, U.S. Power Squadrons, and approved online providers.
What are the penalties for boating without a card in Maryland?
Penalties for operating without a required boater education certificate in Maryland are set by state statute and enforced by Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Natural Resources Police. For current fine amounts, check the official agency page.
Who regulates boating in Maryland?
Recreational boating in Maryland is overseen by Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Natural Resources Police, the authoritative source for current requirements. BoatingClasses.com is an independent directory — not a government or certifying body. Boating laws change, so always confirm current requirements with the official agency before operating a vessel.
Where can Maryland boaters take a course?
Providers serving Maryland — featured and top-rated first. Confirm a course is accepted in Maryland before you enroll.
4.5
BoatUS Foundation
FeaturedA free, NASBLA-approved online boating safety course from the nonprofit BoatUS Foundation.
OnlineFrom $0NASBLA-approved
The state-contracted online boater safety course (by Kalkomey) that earns the official boater education card in nearly every state.
OnlineFrom $29.95NASBLA-approved
Online USCG captain's license courses (OUPV through Master/Mate 200 Ton) with self-paced study and a proctored online exam.
OnlineFrom $595
A long-running maritime school offering USCG captain's license and professional courses online and at Southeast US campuses.
HybridFrom $600
A low-cost online boater safety course, NASBLA-approved and accepted across all 50 states.
OnlineFrom $39.95NASBLA-approved
The sailing-certification body (ASA 101–108) whose standards are taught by a nationwide network of affiliated schools.
In-person
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Next steps for Maryland boaters
Maryland boating license FAQ
- Do you need a boating license in Maryland?
- Maryland does not issue a boating license, but anyone born on or after July 1, 1972 must carry a certificate of boating safety education to operate any motorized vessel, including a PWC.
- Who must have a Maryland boating safety certificate?
- Anyone born on or after July 1, 1972 who operates a motorboat or personal watercraft in Maryland must hold the certificate. Operators born before that date are exempt.
- Does the Maryland boating certificate expire?
- No. The certificate of boating safety education issued by the Maryland DNR is valid for a lifetime and may not be revoked.
- How do I get a Maryland boating safety certificate?
- Complete a NASBLA-approved course — from the Natural Resources Police, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, BoatUS Foundation, U.S. Power Squadrons, or an approved online provider — or pass an equivalent exam.
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