Where & How to Get Certified
Your Pathways to Certification
Various Online
courses that are designed for your state, self-paced, and that you can complete on a computer or mobile device.
Classroom-Based
courses led in-person by certified instructors.
On-the-water
courses that provide actual hands-on experience in operating a boat.
To cast off with a few clicks, simply click on your colored state on this map from NASBLA and it will reveal all approved courses in your state that meet the ANSI/NASBLA Basic Boating Knowledge Standards (click your state a second time if needed). This online Directory of NASBLA Approved Education Courses also shows you if the courses are instructor led or online (Internet). Then simply click on the course you’re interested in an offers the essential details and contact information. Easy-peasy!
Online Courses
To get more of a detailed sense and the cost of what the various online courses offer for your state, explore the online (Internet) options below:
Aceboater
Online boating safety courses with online certification tests for a number of states.
Boat U.S. Foundation
Online boating safety courses with online certification tests for a number of states.
Boat-Ed
Online boating safety courses with online certification tests for a number of states.
BoaterExam.com
Online boating safety courses with online certification tests for a number of states.
Recademics
Offers online boating safety courses with online certification tests for a number of states.
United States Power Squadron
Online boating safety courses with online certification tests for a number of states.
Classroom-Based Courses
If you’re more of an instructor-led classroom person, and with some on-the-water hands-on learning, explore the links to these options:
NauticEd
A sailing course meeting the American National Standard (ANS), EDU-3 skills-based sailboat standard.
Safe Boating America
Classes that meet the State Educational Requirements for operating a Boat or PWC and also meet the requirements for a Youth Operator.
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
Local flotillas offer a variety of safety classes, including basic/introductory boating courses and safety courses, navigation, sailing and personal watercraft safety, among others.
U.S. Sailing
Instruction in small and large sailboats, windsurfers, and powerboats for beginner to advanced skills.
American Canoe Association
Online boating safety courses with online certification tests for a number of states.
The National Safe Boating Council
Offers on-water training opportunities and online Boat On Course with free educational videos teach the basic navigation rules
At The Helm Training
Hands-on training in a fully-immersive course to operate your vessel safely.
The Chapman School of Seamanship
A wide variety of on-the-water courses for most types of boaters from youth to captains.
Now there’s no excuse about the where’s and how’s of you taking a certified boating safety course. And to give you a knowledgeable edge to help you take your course with confidence, watch the videos on this website. There’s not only educational… they’re fun!