Texas Boater Education Course Online
The course Texas requires before younger operators take out a motorboat, a jet ski or a larger sailboat.
- Required if born on or after Sept. 1, 1993
- Motorboats over 15 horsepower
- Personal watercraft
- Sailboats over 14 feet
Regulated by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Is this the right course?
And you plan to operate one of the vessels listed above on Texas public water.
Rental companies ask for the certificate too.
Texas asks for the certificate and a photo ID when you operate.
How it works
Use the name on your photo ID.
Illustrated, with a quiz after each one.
Retake it if you need to.
A temporary one right away. The permanent one comes from TPWD.
Optional extras we are preparing
The course is complete without any of these. Each one is optional and nothing is pre-selected. You will see every price before you pay.
The course handbook mailed to you to keep on the boat.
A lower price when several people in one household enroll.
A mailed copy to carry while you wait for the state card.
What it covers
- Required safety equipment
- Navigation rules
- Operating your boat
- Texas boating laws
- What to do in an emergency
Outline shown for planning. The final content is the version the TPWD approves.
Questions about this course
I was born before September 1, 1993. Do I need it?
Texas does not require it for you, though it is recommended for everyone.
Who issues the certificate?
Texas Parks and Wildlife issues the permanent certificate.
Does it expire?
Check the certificate TPWD sends you for its terms.
Other Texas courses
Driving Safety
For an eligible traffic ticket, or a possible insurance discount.
DWI and Drug Education
Court-ordered programs after a DWI or drug offense.
Responsible Pet Owner
Court-ordered course after an animal-related offense.
Food Handler
For people who prepare or serve food in Texas.
Not open yet. We will open this course only after the TPWD approves it.
Tell me when it opens