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Boating requirements · Montana
Boating license requirements in Montana
Montana requires boater education for youth operators. Youths 13 and 14 years old may operate a motorboat or personal watercraft powered by a motor rated over…
Last verified: June 15, 2026Source: Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP)
Montana requires boater education for youth operators. Youths 13 and 14 years old may operate a motorboat or personal watercraft powered by a motor rated over 10 horsepower only if they hold a valid Montana Motorboat Operator’s Certificate (or an equivalent NASBLA-approved certificate), or are accompanied by someone 18 or older.
Montana boating license at a glance
| Who needs a boater education card | Required for youths 13-14 only. A 13- or 14-year-old may operate a motorboat or PWC over 10 HP only if they hold a valid Montana motorboat operator's safety certificate (or an equivalent NASBLA course) or are accompanied by someone at least 18. Operators 15 and older are not required. |
|---|---|
| Minimum age to operate | Children 12 and under may not operate a motorboat or PWC over 10 HP unless accompanied by someone at least 18. |
| Typical course cost | free home-study (FWP); online about $40 |
| Issuing / regulatory agency | Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) |
| Card validity | Lifetime — good for life. |
Do you need a boating license in Montana?
Montana requires boater education for youth operators. Youths 13 and 14 years old may operate a motorboat or personal watercraft powered by a motor rated over 10 horsepower only if they hold a valid Montana Motorboat Operator’s Certificate (or an equivalent NASBLA-approved certificate), or are accompanied by someone 18 or older.
Not birth-year — youth band 13-14; 15+ exempt.
What boating courses are accepted in Montana?
Montana accepts the Montana Motorboat Operator’s course (a free home-study option) and NASBLA-approved courses from other states or organizations. Classes are also sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
Who regulates boating in Montana?
Recreational boating in Montana is overseen by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), 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 Montana boaters take a course?
Providers serving Montana — featured and top-rated first. Confirm a course is accepted in Montana before you enroll.
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BoatUS Foundation
FeaturedA free, NASBLA-approved online boating safety course from the nonprofit BoatUS Foundation.
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The state-contracted online boater safety course (by Kalkomey) that earns the official boater education card in nearly every state.
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Online USCG captain's license courses (OUPV through Master/Mate 200 Ton) with self-paced study and a proctored online exam.
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A long-running maritime school offering USCG captain's license and professional courses online and at Southeast US campuses.
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A low-cost online boater safety course, NASBLA-approved and accepted across all 50 states.
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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 Montana boaters
Montana boating license FAQ
- Do you need a boating license in Montana?
- Montana does not issue a boating license, but youths 13 and 14 must hold a Montana Motorboat Operator’s Certificate to operate a motorboat or PWC over 10 horsepower without a qualifying adult aboard.
- Who needs a Montana Motorboat Operator’s Certificate?
- Youths 13 and 14 operating a motorboat or PWC rated over 10 horsepower need the certificate, an equivalent NASBLA-approved certificate, or an accompanying person 18 or older.
- How does a young operator get certified in Montana?
- A person 13 or older can complete the Montana Motorboat Operator’s course — including a free home-study option — to receive the Montana Motorboat Operator’s Certificate.
- Are out-of-state boating certificates valid in Montana?
- Yes. Montana accepts evidence of completing another state’s or organization’s NASBLA-approved boating safety course.
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