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Boating requirements · Oregon
Boating license requirements in Oregon
Oregon requires a Boater Education Card to operate a powerboat over 10 horsepower, including a personal watercraft. Operators 16 and older need the card,…
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Do you need a boating license in Oregon?
Oregon requires a Boater Education Card to operate a powerboat over 10 horsepower, including a personal watercraft. Operators 16 and older need the card, youths 12 to 15 face additional restrictions, and no one under 12 may operate a motorboat. The card is administered by the Oregon State Marine Board.
A person 16 or older needs an Oregon Boater Education Card to operate a powerboat (including a PWC) greater than 10 horsepower. Youths 12 to 15 may operate a boat over 10 horsepower only if accompanied by someone 16 or older (18 or older for a PWC) who holds a card, or may operate a boat of 10 horsepower or less without an adult. No one 11 or younger may operate a motorboat.
What boating courses are accepted in Oregon?
Oregon accepts approved boating safety courses, including approved internet courses, to meet its mandatory education requirement. Boaters who hold a current U.S. Coast Guard operator license or a commercial fishing license have related exemptions.
Who regulates boating in Oregon?
Recreational boating in Oregon is overseen by Oregon State Marine Board, 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 Oregon boaters take a course?
Providers serving Oregon — featured and top-rated first. Confirm a course is accepted in Oregon before you enroll.
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Boat-Ed
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The sailing-certification body (ASA 101–108) whose standards are taught by a nationwide network of affiliated schools.
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Oregon boating license FAQ
- Do you need a boating license in Oregon?
- Oregon does not issue a boating license, but operators 16 and older need an Oregon Boater Education Card to operate a powerboat (including a PWC) greater than 10 horsepower.
- Who needs an Oregon Boater Education Card?
- Anyone 16 or older operating a powerboat over 10 horsepower needs the card. Youths 12 to 15 may operate larger boats only with a qualifying card-holding adult aboard.
- What is the minimum age to operate a boat in Oregon?
- No one 11 years old or younger may operate a motorboat in Oregon. Youths 12 to 15 may operate a boat of 10 horsepower or less without an adult.
- Are there exemptions to Oregon’s card requirement?
- Yes. Boaters holding a current U.S. Coast Guard operator license are exempt, and those with a current commercial fishing license carry that documentation instead when operating recreationally.
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