Boating Safety Education
A DNR-approved course is required by the State of Wisconsin for those operators born since 1989, however it is highly encouraged (and informative) for every boater. Although grandfathered-in with your Driver's License (prior to 1989), boating, conditions, operating procedures and rules are very different from driving. Educating yourself can pay large dividends in terms of safety and peace of mind on the water, for both you and your passengers. Many insurance companies even offer discounts to graduates of an approved course in boating safety.
 | Flotillas periodically offer in-person courses, some of which satisfy the Wisconsin state requirement. Check the Calendar for upcoming events The Wisconsin DNR offers in-person courses periodically, as does the United States Power Squadron. (USPS is a Coast Guard-approved partner organization offering several services to the boating public) |
 | The Wisconsin DNR offers an online version of the Boat America course, where you proceed at your own pace, self-study to complete the state requirement. The material is the same as taught by the Wisconsin DNR in-person, and very similar to the material used by the Auxiliary in the Boat America course. If you have regulatory / content questions (not technical / system questions about the online system or its use) while studying, we would be happy to help. The US Power Squadron also provides certification via the Boat America course online, along with other courses covering operation and navigation. |