Do I need to be an Ohio resident to take this test?

No. Both Ohio residents and visitors may take the Ohio Boat Rental Test. There are no residency requirements.

Is there a minimum age to take the Ohio Boat Rental Test?

No, there is no minimum age to take the test. However, rental operators may have their own minimum age requirements for renting or operating a vessel.

Do I need to study before taking the test?

No. You may review the study materials before taking the test, but it is not mandatory.

How many questions are on the test?

The Ohio Boat Rental Test consists of 10 multiple-choice questions.

What score do I need to pass?

You must score 90% or higher to pass the Ohio Boat Rental Test. This means you must answer at least 9 out of 10 questions correctly.

What happens if I fail the test?

You may review the study materials and retake the test.

How long does it take to complete the test?

Most participants complete the study materials and test in approximately 5–20 minutes.

How long is my Ohio Boat Rental Certificate valid?

Your Ohio Boat Rental Certificate is valid for 14 days from the date you successfully pass the test.

Will I receive my certificate immediately after passing?

Yes. Your certificate is available immediately upon successful completion of the test.

Ohio Boat Rental Test

Boaters wishing to rent a boat or a PWC in Ohio that were born on or after January 1, 1982 and are renting a boat in Ohio with more than 10 horsepower, you must either show proof of an Boaters Safety Card or pass a 10-question proficiency exam.

This 10-question exam requires a 90% passing score and is valid for 14 days. It’s a quick way to confirm basic boating safety knowledge before you head out on the water.

Use the study guide or go straight to the Boat Rental Test. Unlimited re-tries.

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Is it called a Boating License?

Some people may call it a Boat License or Boaters License. However, it is not a license. It is known as a Boater Education Certificate or a Boater Education Card. The reason it is not called a Ohio boating license is that it does not expire or need to be renewed.

After you have successfully completed the NASBLA / Ohio approved Boater Safety Course and Exam, you will be issued a Ohio Boater Card. This card is good for life.

Remember, your Boater Card must be carried with you while operating marine vessels. Otherwise, it may result in a fine from a local law enforcement officer.

More Ohio Boating Courses

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Ohio Boat Course

If you were born on or after January 1, 1982, and plan to operate a boat or PWC with a motor exceeding 10 horsepower in Ohio, you are required to complete a boating education course. PWC Specifics: The above requirement applies to both residents and non-residents. In addition, operators must be at least 12 years old, those ages 12–15 must have an adult supervising them on board, and all riders must wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket at all times.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Course

Anyone born on or after January 1, 1982, who rents and operates a motorized boat with more than 10 horsepower in Ohio and does not already possess an approved boating education certificate must pass the Ohio Boat Rental Test.

Certification

Once you successfully pass the test, your certificate will be available immediately. You can download, print, or save a digital copy on your mobile device.