Boating Safety
 

Alabama Boat Operator's Certificate Information

Who must be certified? All persons 12 years of age and older who operate a motorized vessel on Alabama waters. Certification must be obtained before April 28, 1999.

To get a license: All persons 12-19 years of age must furnish a certified copy of their birth certificate and a DL1/93 student enrollment form from the school which the person attends or high school diploma or GED.

Cost of Certification: A one time fee of $5.00 will be charged as an application fee if you have a current Alabama driver’s license. If you are a non-resident or non-licensed driver, the cost is $20.00 for the application fee.

How to Obtain Boat Operators Certification:
1. Applicant must go to Department of Public Safety Driver’s License Examining Office in county of residence.
2. Make application and pay appropriate fee.
3. Answer medical questions.
4. Successfully complete written/oral exam, or show proof of exemption.
5. Take proper form to Probate or License Commissioners office to have the "V" endorsement placed on driver’s license at the time of renewal.

Exemptions From Examination Requirements:
1. Holder of a valid United States Coast Guard Motorboat Operator’s License.
2. Person submitting a valid certificate of successful completion of:
A) United States Power Squadron Boating Course
B) United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Boating Course
C) Any state of Alabama Marine Police Division approved boating course:
    a) Alabama Boating Basics course.
D) Any boat operator who was born prior to April 28, 1954.

NOTE: Boating course certificates or motor boat operator’s license must be presented to the license examiner at the time of making application.

NOTE: The operator certification must be in possession at all times of operation.