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District of Columbia Boater Education Card (2026)

Conditional: Anyone operating a vessel on District of Columbia waterways must have a Boating Safety Certificate, issued on completing the MPD Harbor Patrol boating safety course.

ConditionalVerified Jul 7, 2026

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Official source: mpdc.dc.gov →

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Boater Education Card in states bordering District of Columbia

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

MarylandConditional
Maryland requires anyone born on or after July 1, 1972 to hold a Certificate of Boating Safety Education to operate any mechanically propelled vessel on Maryland waters.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: dnr.maryland.gov · Full Maryland rule →
VirginiaConditional
Virginia requires all operators (any age) of motorboats with a 10 hp or greater engine, and all PWC operators 14+, to carry a boating safety course completion card.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: dwr.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →

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