HISTORY

Presently the NJ State Police("NJSP") age phase-in period has ended (no grandfathering).   All Operators of powered vessels (jet skis, power boats, etc.) in NJ waters must possess a Safe Boating Certificate. 

ALSO IF IN NJ non-tidal waters (e.g. Lake Hapatcong, etc.) have a 2nd level of credentialling- securing a "Boat" endoresment on your driver's license from NJ DMC.  

CERTIFICATE LIMITATIONS  (See NJAC 13:64)

o  YOUNG COURSE TAKERS- - -No one less than 12 years-old may take the Certification test.  Aged 12 having passed this course, the Certificate issuance will be deferred by the NJSP and issued to the child upon your request after his/her 13th birthday.  BUT parents must request it be issued. 

  THHIS IS DONE by: (1) writing to NJSP Marine Bureau, (2) supply proof of sucessful course completion (we'll supply you that) AND (3) a copy of one parent's Drivers License.

o  No one less than 13 years-old may operate any powered vessel in NJ waters.

o Persons ages 13 up to age 16 may operate any electric motor powered vessel OR vessel longer than 12 feet with less than 10 hp while possessing this Certificate.

o Persons 16 years of age and older with this Certificate may legally operate any sized powered vessel or jet ski in NJ.

For more details, CLICK ON http://njsp.org/maritime/pdf/title13ch64_120607.pdf

BOAT RENTERS

 BEWARE!   All operators of any powered (electric motor or gas engine) rental vessel must have this Certificate.  The rental facility may offer an NJSP content approved course ( approx. 30 to 60 minutes) to its customers in lieu of your possession of this Certificate.  As of 1/20/2011 the Rental Livery MUST provide you with written proof of this instructional course and maintain records of your completion for at least 3 years.  Your liability (NOT THEIRS)  is fines is up to $500.

TEST OUT / GRANDFATHER EXPERIENCE OPTION IS GONE

Effective June 1, 2009 the test-out option (in lieu of approved 8 hours class attendance) has been permanently eliminated by NJSP.

PRIOR BOATING COURSES

Boaters who have previously taken formal boating safety course(s)(e.g. Power Squadron or Auxiliary) will normally not be credited with course attendance.  HOWEVER the boater may appeal to the NJSP by securing a NJSP Form SP421 and have your prior course provider complete this form describing their course contents and its compliance with the current NJSP Boating Safety requirements.

WHAT DOES "NASBLA" FORMAT MEAN

NASBLA is the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.  Are the majority(43) of states standard for Boating Safety courses.  Meaning your course matched that State's course requirements too.

I LOST MY OLD CARD- WILL RE-TAKING THIS COURSE FIX THAT?

NO.  The State Police will record the new course and your application as a "duplicate" from your prior card. The State Police will issue NOTHING.  Please call for further explaination. (201) 716-2883.  Also see the FAQ tab on this site.