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Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey officially signed into law the Hanson-Milone Boater Safety Act on January 8, 2025, which requires all boat operators in Massachusetts to obtain a boater safety certificate.

This new law goes into effect on April 1, 2026 and requires any boat operator in Massachusetts to take a boating safety class to obtain an official state certificate. The law will be enforced by the Massachusetts Environmental Police.

Who needs a boater safety certificate?

All individuals operating motorboats and personal watercraft in Massachusetts waters.

If you were born on or after January 1, 1989, you must obtain a certificate no later than April 1, 2026. Note: no penalties will be enforced until September 1, 2026.

If you were born after Jan. 1, 1989, you must obtain your boating safety certificate before April 1, 2028.

All operators of motorboats and PWCs are required to carry proof of completion of an approved boater education and safety course while on the water. 

Teens:

After March 31, 2026, those ages 12-15 must complete an approved basic boating course to operate a motorboat without adult supervision. Upon successfully completing this course, the student will receive a state-approved boating safety certificate, which they must keep in their possession while operating a boat. Children under 12 are not allowed to operate motorboats unless supervised by an adult.

Ages 16-17 who wish to operate a PWC must also complete the approved boating course. Those under 16 are not allowed to operate personal watercraft.

How to find an approved boating safety course

The Boat Massachusetts safety course is available in two formats: a full in-person class that runs approximately 10-12 hours, generally over the course of several days; or an online education course, conducted at the applicant’s pace.

The in-person courses are free to attend. There is a charge of approximately $45 for the online course. 

To find an in-person course near you, and see the upcoming schedule, visit https://www.mass.gov/info-details/boating-safety-course-schedule. There are several venues in an around southeastern Massachusetts.

To register for an on-line class, visit https://www.mass.gov/how-to/boat-safety-certificate-course.

These classes will cover navigation rules and how to safely maneuver on the water and avoid collisions; emergency procedures to protect you, your passengers and your boat; and environmental protections boat operators should follow.