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State Boating Education Law Update - Page 2

© Capt. Matt

There are a couple of exemptions, for persons who are licensed by the state of New Hampshire or the U.S. Coast Guard to operate a commercial vessel, or those with boating safety certificates from other states.

Boaters may take either of two tacks to get their certificate. They may either successfully complete a NASBLA-approved course of instruction spanning at least eight hours, passing their test with a minimum score of 70 percent. Or, they may take an equivalency exam, passing with a minimum score of 80 percent.

The new law sets the minimum age of operation at 16 years to operate a boat of 15 horsepower or more. Juveniles without certificates may operate such vessels only when they are accompanied by an adult age 18 or older, who has an operator's certificate.

This new law has some teeth. Any person convicted of violating the new boating law who has not already completed a safe boating course must take the course within six months of conviction at their own expense. Persons convicted of operating without a certificate will be fined $50 for the first offense, and $250 for any subsequent conviction.

For more information on New Hampshire state boating laws go to the New Hampshire State Specific Section. http://boatsafe.com/New_Hampshire

Rhode Island

Rhode Island lawmakers are considering legislation that would make boating safety education mandatory.

For more information on Rhode Island state boating laws go to the Rhode Island State Specific Section. http://boatsafe.com/Rhode_Island

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