How to Get an Ohio Boating License? Requirements Simplified

The state of Ohio has a vast network of waterways, including lakes, rivers, and streams, that attract boaters and anglers from all over the country. However, to ensure safety on these waterways, the state of Ohio requires boaters to obtain a boating license. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of obtaining an Ohio boating license, including the requirements, fees, and steps involved. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or a beginner, this post will provide you with the information you need to get started.

Requirements for Obtaining an Ohio Boating License

To obtain an Ohio boating license, you must meet certain requirements. These requirements vary depending on your age and the type of boat you plan to operate.

Age Requirements

If you are under the age of 16, you must complete a boating safety education course approved by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) before you can operate a boat with a motor. If you are 16 or older, you can take the boating safety education course, but it is not required.

Boat Registration

To operate a boat in Ohio, you must register it with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). You can register your boat online or by mail. The registration fee is $20 for a one-year registration and $40 for a three-year registration.

Boating Safety Education Course

The boating safety education course is a 6-hour course that covers topics such as boating laws, safety equipment, and navigation. The course is offered by the ODNR and can be taken online or in a classroom setting. The course fee is $25 for online and $30 for in-class.

Course Topics

Boating laws and regulations
Safety equipment and requirements
Navigation and chart reading
Weather and water conditions
Emergency procedures and first aid

Boating License Fees

The fees for an Ohio boating license vary depending on your age and the type of boat you plan to operate. Here are the fees for a standard boating license:

Age	License Fee
Under 16	$10
16-24	$20
25 and older	$30

Steps to Obtain an Ohio Boating License

Now that you know the requirements and fees, let’s go through the steps to obtain an Ohio boating license:

Step 1: Take the Boating Safety Education Course

Take the boating safety education course approved by the ODNR. This course is required for boaters under the age of 16 and recommended for all boaters.

Step 2: Get Your Boating License Application

Get your boating license application from the ODNR or the Ohio BMV. You can also download the application from the ODNR website.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application

Fill out the application completely and accurately. Make sure to include all required information, including your name, address, and social security number.

Step 4: Pay the License Fee

Pay the license fee, which varies depending on your age and the type of boat you plan to operate.

Step 5: Submit the Application

Submit the application to the ODNR or the Ohio BMV. You can submit the application online or by mail.

Step 6: Get Your Boating License

Once your application is processed, you will receive your boating license in the mail. Make sure to keep your license with you whenever you operate a boat in Ohio.

Recap of Requirements and Steps

To recap, here are the requirements and steps to obtain an Ohio boating license:

Age requirements: Under 16, complete a boating safety education course; 16 and older, take the course but it is not required.
Boat registration: Register your boat with the Ohio BMV.
Boating safety education course: Take a 6-hour course approved by the ODNR.
Boating license fees: Vary depending on age and type of boat.
Steps to obtain a license: Take the boating safety education course, get your application, fill out the application, pay the license fee, submit the application, and get your license.

Frequently Asked Questions