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Texas Boater Education Card (2026)
Conditional: Texas requires anyone born on or after Sept 1, 1993 to pass a boater education course to operate a motorboat over 15 hp or a windblown vessel over 14 ft.
Official source: tpwd.texas.gov →
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Boater Education Card in states bordering Texas
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- ArkansasConditional
Arkansas requires anyone born on or after Jan 1, 1986 (and of legal operating age) to complete an approved AGFC Boating Education Course and carry proof while operating a motorboat or sailboat.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: agfc.com · Full Arkansas rule →
- LouisianaConditional
Louisiana requires anyone born after Jan 1, 1984 to complete an LDWF-approved boater education course to operate a motorboat over 10 hp or a personal watercraft.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: wlf.louisiana.gov · Full Louisiana rule →
- New MexicoConditional
New Mexico requires a boater education card for anyone born on or after Jan 1, 1989 who operates a motor-powered vessel or a sailboat.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: emnrd.nm.gov · Full New Mexico rule →
- OklahomaConditional
Oklahoma requires anyone 12-15 operating a boat over 10 hp, a sailboat 16 ft or greater, or a PWC to complete a boating safety education class; not required for adults.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: oklahoma.gov · Full Oklahoma rule →
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