• The Boating Safety Education ID Card (also referred to as the Florida Boaters License) is proof that a boater has demonstrated basic boating knowledge by passing an approved boating safety course and exam.

Do I have to get a Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card (FL Boater's License)?

• If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you are required to get the Boating Safety Education ID Card to operate any powered watercraft over 10hp including PWCs.

What is the minimum age to obtain a Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card?

• There is no minimum age to take the boat safety exam.

How do I get my Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card (Florida boater's license)
From the Coast Guard Auxiliary?

• The steps required to get your Florida boaters license are as follows:
  • Register for one of our Saturday Safe Boating Classes
  • Course Material will be taught by trained instructors
  • Pay $25.00 (and additional family member may attend for only $5.00 more.)
  • The test will be completed at the end of the class.
  • Upon passing, you will receive your official Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card within 2-3 weeks. This card is commonly known as the Florida boating license.
• To register for a Coast Guard Auxiliary Safe Boating Class
  Contact: Bob Strong (904) 721-1346, restrong@comcast.net

How much does the course and exam cost? How much does the Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card cost?

• Flotilla 14-8's ABS course and certification exam costs $25.00. This includes a book that you may keep for future reference. One additional family member may share the course materials and take the exam for only $5.00 more. There is no charge for the Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card.

When will I receive my Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card in the mail?

• Your Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card will be mailed to your home within 2-3 weeks after you pass the exam. If you do not receive your Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card within 3 weeks, contact the group who administered your exam.

Do I get a temporary card or certificate until my permanent boater's license arrives?

• No. The state will only recognize the official Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card as proof of successfully completing an approved boater safety course.

How do I replace my boater education card if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?

• To obtain a replacement card, phone the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Division of Law Enforcement, at 850-488-5600.

Is anyone exempt from getting the Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card (Florida boater's license)?

• Any exemptions from the mandatory boater's license requirement are explained in detail on the Who May Operate a Vessel page.

What are the minimum age and boater education requirements to operate a personal watercraft or motorboat on Florida waters?

• Florida's boating safety education requirements and laws about operating a boat or PWC are explained in detail on the Who May Operate a Vessel page.