The equivalency exam is an option in lieu of attending an inperson class or enrolling in the online course for the experienced recreational boater.
The exam is a multiple-choice exam is proctored by Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife staff and the volunteers that teach the Maine classroom Boating Education Safety Courses.
Who is required to have a boating safety and education certificate in the State of Maine?
Operating personal watercraft (PWC) while 16 years of age or older:
Beginning January 1, 2024, a person born on or after January 1, 1999, may not operate a personal watercraft on inland waters of the State or territorial waters, as defined in section 6001, subsection 48-B, unless that person is 16 years of age or older and has completed a boater safety and education course.
Operating motorboat:
Beginning January 1, 2024, a person born on or after January 1, 1999, may not operate on inland waters of this State or territorial waters, as defined in section 6001, subsection 48-B, a motorboat for recreational boating purposes propelled by machinery capable of producing more than 25 horsepower unless that person is 12 years of age or older. Exemptions are:
-Possesses a valid Maine guide license and has met the requirements for carrying passengers for hire under section 13063
-Possesses a valid or expired United States merchant marine document issued by the United States Coast Guard for an operator of uninspected passenger vessel, or master or mate captain's license;
-Is test driving a motorboat that is registered in accordance with section 13060-A and that is offered for sale by a dealer that has been issued a watercraft dealer's certificate of number and the person is under the direct supervision of a person 16 years of age or older who has completed a boater safety and education course;
-Possesses a rental or lease agreement that lists the person as an authorized operator of the motorboat and the person has completed a temporary boater safety course provided by the rental agent who has been issued a certificate of number as described in section 13064. A renter or lessor meeting the requirements of this subparagraph may operate the rented or leased motorboat for up to 14 days from the date of course completion or for the duration of the rental agreement, whichever is earlier; or
-Is not a citizen of the United States, arrived to the United States by sea and is temporarily operating on territorial waters as defined in section 6001, subsection 48-B for 60 days or less.
Minimum age to take the equivalency exam is 12 years old.
Pre-registration is required through Eventbrite.
Upon completing the exam your results will be e-mailed to you within 2 business days and your certificate will arrive by mail within 5 business days.
To prepare for this exam it is recommended you review The Boaters Guide to Maine's Boating Laws and Responsibilities (PDF).
