Obtaining a boating license in the state of Maine involves a series of steps designed to ensure that boaters are knowledgeable and capable of safely operating watercraft. Maine requires boating education for certain individuals and vessels, with specific regulations set by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW). The process primarily includes completing a boating safety course, passing an examination, and understanding the state's boating laws and regulations.
Beginning January 2024, anyone born on or after January 1, 1999 must be at least 12-years old and must take a boater safety course to operate a recreational boat with a motor that is 25 horse-power or greater on coastal or inland waters.
These boaters must possess and present a boater safety and education course certificate to a Marine Patrol Officer or Maine Game Warden for inspection upon request.
Boaters under the age of 12 may operate a motorboat on Maine waters as long as the engine is less than 10 horsepower. Anyone under the age of 12 must have supervision to operate a motorboat if the motor is between 10 horsepower and 25 horsepower.
Anyone born after January 1, 1999 is required to complete a boater safety and education course and be at least 16 years of age to operate a personal watercraft (such as a jet ski), or to supervise a person under 12 years of age who is operating a motorboat.
Online Boating Education Courses
There are currently three vendors that provide Maine online boating education courses. Once you have successfully completed this self-paced online course you will immediately be issued a boater safety and education course certificate. The online courses are:
- BoatUS Foundation: A nonprofit organization with free online course.
- Boat-Ed: This online course costs $34.95.
- Boattests101: This online course costs $24.95.
Visit the Boating Safety and Education Course page on the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife website for more information on the law, education courses, and frequently asked questions.