← West Virginia boating laws›Boater Education Card
West Virginia Boater Education Card (2026)
Conditional: West Virginia requires anyone born on or after Dec 31, 1986 to obtain a certificate of boating safety education before operating a motorboat or PWC.
General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.
Boater Education Card in states bordering West Virginia
The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.
- KentuckyConditional
In Kentucky, those 12-17 may operate a motorized vessel over 10 hp only if they passed an approved boating safety course and carry the certificate, or are accompanied by a person 18 or older.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: fw.ky.gov · Full Kentucky rule →
- 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 →
- OhioConditional
Ohio requires boaters born on or after Jan 1, 1982 to complete an approved boating course or proficiency exam to operate a boat powered by more than 10 hp.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: ohiodnr.gov · Full Ohio rule →
- PennsylvaniaConditional
Pennsylvania requires a Boating Safety Education Certificate for anyone born on or after Jan 1, 1982 operating a boat over 25 hp, and for all PWC operators regardless of age.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: pa.gov · Full Pennsylvania 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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