WHO NEEDS THIS SAFE BOATING CERTIFICATE?
HISTORY
Anyone operating a powered vessel(electric or gas) including jet skis in New Jersey fresh or salt waters are required to possess a Boating Safety Certificate or possess an USCG operators license(valid in tidal waters only) on board.
The NJ State Police multi-year phased-in program has expired. All vessel operators are now required to have the appropriate credential and must take full course ( no grandfathering test out option).
AGE LIMITATIONS (See NJAC 13:64)
o Under age13 can legally operate: NOTHING WITH A MOTOR ( However, you may take this Boater Safety Course as of age 12)
o Ages 13 up to age 15 (ONLY WITH CERTIFICATE) can operate vessels at least 12 feet long powered by 10 or less hp
o Age 16 years-old and up (ONLY WITH CERTFICATE) you can operate any jet ski(PWC) or any powered vessel in NJ.
For more State Police INFORMATION CLICK ON:
TEST OUT OPTION
Commonly called "Grandfathered" was eliminated by N.J. State Police on June 1, 2009.
RENTAL ROW BOATS
BEWARE! Anyone renting a powered boat, whether electric motor or gas fueled, on tidal waters must possess a Safe Boating Certificate. The boat rental facility may provide you with a formal (45-60 minute) instructional class to satisfy this legal obligation. Otherwise you are operating at risk of a large fine. The Rental facility shall provide you with written proof of this instruction and shall maintain your course records for 3 years.
PENALTIES
NJ statute provides for fines up to $500 for violations of this requirement.
CERTIFICATE EXPIRATION
The NJ Boating Safety Certificate is issued with no expiration date.
CREDIT FOR PRIOR COURSES TAKEN
The NJSP will not provide credit for completion of prior boat safety course(s) completed without that course provider submitting NJSP Form SP421 to the NJSP which describe that course's compliance with current NJSP Boating Safety requirements.