Frequently Asked Questions

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We cannot print you a new certificate. the State is the only people that can do that. 

But we can help!

you have two options:

  1. Consult the NJ Marine Services Bureau's website at:  

    https://nj.gov/njsp/marine-services/boating-safety-certificate.shtml

  2. Send us an email, and we can help you through the process. 

It is an endorsement on your New Jersey Driver’s License or ID card that allows you to operate a vessel on non-tidal waters. It is not a replacement for your Boating Safety Certificate, but an additional required document for non-tidal waters.

We provide both public and private boating safety courses. Check the upcoming events calendar for future public classes, or contact us to schedule a private course.  

Yes. However, after successful completion of the internet portion of the course, the student will have to complete an in-person, proctored exam. The Marine Services Bureau cautions students, prior to beginning the on-line study, to check with the on-line course provider to insure they provide a testing location within driving distance from the student’s location.  

We have partnered with Boat-Ed.com and Boatersexam.com; as a testing location. Check the upcoming events calendar for future testing/proctor events 

 New Jersey Marine Services Bureau regulates boating education and licensing requirements. 

The easiest answer to this question is yes, but there are always a few exceptions. 

Review the NJ boating Safety manual for more information (pages 2 and 3)

 The answer to this is maybe.

• To rent a powerboat, or sailboat in NJ you will need a boat license.  
• To rent a PWC you may only need to watch a training video at the rental location and while operating the PWC you will be restricted to a certain area. 
• To rent a paddle craft or similar you may not be required to have a NJ boaters safety certificate. 

Check our services Registration page for our current course rates.

The Boating Safety Certificate received from the NJSP Marine Bureau does not expire.

If your obtaining an endorsement on your drivers license to have a "boating license". This "Boat license" will expire along with your Automobile Drivers License, but both normally require a simple visit to the DMV for a renewal.

Yes, New Jersey and Federal regulations recognize PWC's (Waverunners) as full fledged powerboats. As such these vessels adhere to the same if not more stringent regulations. 

 After you successfully complete and earn your NJ boating safety certificate: 

13 years of age but less than 16 years of age

• You may operate vessel powered solely by an electric motor or a vessel 12 ft. long or longer with less than 10 HP 

16 years of age and older

• You can operate any power vessel including personal watercraft on NJ waters.

 This option has expired (2009) and is no longer available.

 Only people over the age of 16 and hold a NJ boating safety certificate are permitted to operate a PWC in NJ state waters.

PWC's are not permitted on the waters of New Jersey between sunset and sunrise, or during any time of restricted visibility as determined by an agent or offi cer of the Marine Law Enforcement Bureau, Division of State Police 

For Safety considerations PWC's are not authorized within the confines of the Point Pleasant Canal in Ocean County, or the Cape May Canal located in Cape May County. 

 If there is water - It's a good place to ride a PWC.

If it is your first time on a PWC take it slow at first until you get the hang of it.

If you are looking for new places to ride - look on Facebook for local PWC clubs, and or checkout  https://www.pwctrailfinder.com/  

Only if you intend to fish from your personal boat, or the shore

Yes, Although this license is free - Fines between $25 to $50 that would have been better spent on fishing bait could be imposed for anglers caught without this free license.

Refer to this Website for more information

 Yes, Well at-least Generally.

• Anyone age 16 and older must have a valid license (see Exceptions) to fish the fresh waters of New Jersey with landline, rod and line, or longbow and arrow. This includes privately owned lakes and other waters. 
• With the exception of state residents 70 and older who are exempt from fishing license and Trout Stamp requirements  

Refer to This Website for more information

An Engine Cut-Off Switch is a safety mechanism used to shut the boats engine off when the operator is thrown the helm. 

 Boaters operating recreational boats less than 26 feet in length must use an Engine Cut-Off Device (ECOS) link if one is installed. 

Here is a good example

Here is a good example

 Boats less than 26 feet in length that generate more than 115lbs of static thrust (roughly 2hp) and were built beginning in January 2020 must have a ECOS installed.

Not unless the boat was built on or after 1 JAN 2020. The installation requirement applies to manufacturers,  

 The boat is operated from an enclosed helm.

• The boat is off plane and not exceeding hull speed
• During docking maneuvers or while at idle
• The vessel does not have a factory installed engine cut-off switch and is not required to have one