Boating Education
Mandatory Boating Education Began January 1, 2001. This law affects operators of sailboats and motor-powered craft.
Anyone born on or after January 1, 1986, and of legal age to operate a motorboat, must have successfully completed an approved Arkansas Game and Fish Commission Boating Education Course and carry proof while operating a motorboat on Arkansas water. The law also affects operators of sailboats.
The Arkansas Boating Education Course teaches the fundamentals of safe and responsible boating. This is necessary to reduce loss of life, personal injury and property damage while increasing boating enjoyment for outdoor enthusiasts. The basic six hour boating course includes:
- Arkansas Boating Law
- Boat Classification
- Registration and Trailering
- Personal Flotation Devices (Life Jackets, etc.)
- Rules of the Road
- Maintenance
- Boating Accidents
Boating Education Classes
There are now three ways to complete the Arkansas Boating Education course. Click here for more information.
Boating Education Card Replacement
If you have taken the course and passed it, but have lost your boating education card, click here to find out how to order a replacement.
Vessel Safety Check
A Vessel Safety Check is a courtesy examination of your boat (Vessel) to verify the presence and condition of certain safety equipment required by state and the federal regulations. The Vessel Examiner is a trained specialist and is a member of the United States Power Squadrons or the US Coast Guard Auxiliary. They will also make certain recommendations and discuss certain safety issues that will make you a safer boater. Visit the
Vessel Safety Check Website and request a FREE vessel check.