Does Alabama require a boating license?

Asked by: Charles Robertson

Statewide licensing of boat operators began in all Alabama counties July 17, 1997 under the Boating Safety Reform Act. You must be at least 12 years of age to operate a motorized vessel on Alabama’s waterways. You also must be licensed.

Who is exempt from the Alabama boating license?

Non-residents 12 years old and older, may operate on Alabama waters up to 45 days per calendar year without having to obtain a vessel operator’s license.

Who needs an Alabama boating license?

Alabama Boater Safety Course
In Alabama, all operators must either pass a state proficiency exam or complete a boater safety course approved by the Alabama Marine Patrol Division in order to operate a motorboat with greater than 15 hp. Boaters must carry their vessel operator’s license as proof of boater education.

What is required to operate a boat in Alabama?

In accordance with the Roberson/Archer Act of 1994, all persons who operate a motorized vessel, including personal watercraft, on Alabama’s waters are required to obtain an Alabama Boat Operators Certificate. Boat operators must be at least 12 years of age to receive their Alabama Boat Operators Certificate.

Is boat registration required in Alabama?

All mechanically propelled boats, sailboats, and boats for hire, (except for canoes) must be registered in Alabama. Boat owners can register, renew, or transfer boat ownership at any County License office.

Can passengers drink on a boat in Alabama?

It is legal for people over the age of 21 to possess an open container of alcohol on a boat. Boating laws are not the same as the laws that govern alcohol use in land-based vehicles. The Alabama “open container law” applies only to public roads and rights-of-way, Brooks said.

Is Alabama boating license valid in Florida?

Good news! If you’ve successfully completed an official boating safety course such as boat-ed or ilearntoboat, your boater education card is welcome in every state that requires mandatory boater education.

Can local police board your boat?

Any law enforcement agency within its own jurisdiction can board a boat when faced with “exigent circumstances,” such as someone clearly operating a vessel to endanger, boating under the influence, displaying gross negligence, and so on.

How many questions are on the Alabama boating test?

Upon passing (answering 20 of the 25 questions correctly), apply for your Alabama boater safety certification.

Do you need a license to kayak in Alabama?

Alabama Kayaking Education Laws
Do you have to have a license to operate a kayak in Alabama? You don’t have to have a boating license to operate a kayak in Alabama, unless you plan to mount an electric or gas trolling motor on a canoe or kayak. Then it becomes a motorized vessel and you need a license.

How old do you have to be to not wear a lifejacket in Alabama?

8 years of age

In Alabama, passengers under 8 years of age are required to wear a Coast Guard-approved, life jacket while on board any boat (unless they are in an enclosed cabin).

Can I get my Alabama boating license online?

Official Alabama Boating Safety Course. Take this Alabama–approved course to complete your online boating safety education. Boat-ed.com is a delegated provider for the ALEA Marine Police Division.