Question 1

What is the Boat America course?

Accepted Answer

Boat America is a NASBLA-approved boating safety course developed by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. It covers the basics of safe boating, navigation, and state/local regulations.

Question 2

Who should take this class?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who operates a boat or personal watercraft — including new boaters, families, and anyone looking to meet their state’s boating education requirement.

Question 3

Who is required to take a boating safety course?

Accepted Answer

In Illinois, anyone born on or after January 1, 1998 who wants to operate a motorized boat must complete a state-approved boating safety course and obtain a Boating Safety Certificate.

This course is open to anyone age 10 or older who plans to operate a boat.

Question 4

Is this course required to get my boating safety certificate?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this class meets the Illinois (and most other states’) boating education requirements. A completion certificate will be issued at the end of the course.

Question 5

How long is the class?

Accepted Answer

The full course runs approximately 9 hours, including breaks and the final exam.

Question 6

Is there an age requirement?

Accepted Answer

The course is recommended for ages 13 and up. Students under 16 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Question 7

Will there be a test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a short multiple-choice exam is given at the end to ensure understanding. Don’t worry — our instructors will prepare you well!

Question 8

Do I need to register in advance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Seating and materials are limited, so please register early through Eventbrite.

Question 9

What if I need to cancel or can’t attend?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us as soon as possible so we can offer your seat to someone on the waitlist.

Question 10

Who teaches the class?

Accepted Answer

Certified volunteer instructors from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary — experienced boaters dedicated to promoting safe boating.

Question 11

Will this course cover local boating laws or lake-specific info?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our instructors include local details and updates relevant to boating in this region.

Question 12

Do I need to own a boat to take the class?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! Many people take it before buying their first boat or as part of learning more about boating safety.

Question 13

How is the virtual class different from the in-person class?

Accepted Answer

The virtual Boat America® class follows the same curriculum and standards as the in-person course, but is delivered live online by a certified USCG Auxiliary Instructor. Participants must attend, participate, and successfully complete the knowledge (retention) exam to earn certification.

Question 14

Will cameras be required during the class?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Participants should plan to have their cameras on at times during the class. This helps instructors verify attendance, encourage participation, and maintain the interactive nature of the course. You do not need to be on camera the entire time, but availability is required.

Question 15

How will I receive my course materials?

Accepted Answer

Course materials will be mailed via USPS to the address provided at registration. Please register early and double-check your mailing address to avoid delays.

Question 16

What if my materials do not arrive before the class?

Accepted Answer

Attend the class as scheduled. Use provided digital references or notes during instruction. Contact the course coordinator immediately so we can assist. Materials arriving late will not prevent you from completing the course, but timely communicagion is important.

Question 17

How does the household discount work?

Accepted Answer

A second participant from the same household may register for $20 and share one set of materials. Each person must register separately, attend the full class, and will earn their own certificate upon successful completion of the course and knowledge (retention) exam.

Question 18

What if I miss a class session?

Accepted Answer

If you miss a session, please email the course contact as soon as possible.
These courses are offered in the same instructional sequence, and a make-up session may be arranged when feasible. Make-ups are not guaranteed, but we will do our best to accommodate when notified promptly.

Question 19

Will I receive my own certificate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Each registered participant will receive an official Boat America® certificate upon successful completion of the course and the required knowledge (retention) exam—regardless of ticket type.

Question 20

Do I need to bring anything to class?

Accepted Answer

Please bring a pen, notebook, and a photo ID. All course materials will be provided. You may also bring a snack or drink.

VIRTUAL - Boat America ....a course on responsible boating - MAY 2026

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VIRTUAL - Boat America ....a course on responsible boating - MAY 2026

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