Does Arkansas Require A License For Boat Driving

Feb. 28 2022 Boating Rules By Abu Hurara Lone

Each state determines the requirements for operating a Houseboat, sailboat, Pontoon  boat, and Personal Watercraft on the waters in its jurisdiction,  and most require some sort of boating safety and education certificate,  which may be called a boating license.

What is required to drive a boat in Arkansas? All vessels must have at least one USCG approved wearable PFD or each person on board. In addition to the requirements for PFDs, one USCG approved throwable PFD must be on board vessels 16 feet or longer. All PFDs must be in good and serviceable condition and readily accessible.

Arkansas Boating License

In Arkansas, no one born after January 1, 1986 is permitted to operate a water vessel  or Pontoon boat or sailboat without being in possession of a Boater’s safety Education Card. In order to obtain your Boater's Card in Arkansas, you must successfully pass an approved Boater Safety Education Course or to carry a boater education card. Boating license in different lakes of Arkansas is must for boating. Beaver Lake, Norfork Lake, Lake Of Catherine and many other lakes require boat license from you. If you have boating licence, you can easily rent a houseboat at Laceys for your vacation.

Taking A Boating License Course

It’s an easiest way, if you take the online Arkansas Boat Education Course. The online course is designed to take about three hours to complete. You don’t have to complete the entire course at one sitting. Study the course material thoroughly. There is a review exam that must be completed at the end of each section. You must pass each and every quiz of each section and the online boating exam. The course will cover boating basics and terminology, navigation rules, state boating regulations, how to handle boating emergencies, and how to enjoy water sports. After passing the online exam, print your Temporary Boater Education Certificate and be ready to hit the water. Later, you can take the state required In-Person Exam.

You can’t rent a boat by laceysmarina if you don’t know how to drive a boat without captain. If you are planning your vacation in Lake Fort Smith, it necessary to have a license to drive a boat, otherwise you couldn’t rent a Luxury Boat without it.

Education Requirements For Boating

Boating education requirements vary widely by state. In Arkansas, you are required to carry a Boater's Safety Education Certificate if you are at least 16 years old. Arkansas Boating Safety Education Program is developed to meet the standards for Boating Safety Education by Arkansas start. Boat Education is the only safety course provider that develops print material on behalf of government agencies responsible for Boating laws and regulations.

Arkansas Boating License Fees

The cost to take the state required boating education program varies from course to course as there is no standard state fee. Most boating lessons taught in person in a classroom setting are free to the public and offer students the necessary course materials. Online programs usually carry a $20 to $30 course enrolment fee before allowing student drivers full access to the program. After getting a boat license, renting a Pontoon boat is no more difficult in Bull Shoals Lake.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent A Boat Or Jet Ski In Arkansas?

Operators of personal water craft must be at least 14 years old. Operators must be 15 years old and reach education requirements or 16 years old or older with a valid motor vehicle drivers license to operate a motor boat with a motor greater than 10 hsp. 12 is the minimum to operate vessel over 10 h.p and may legally operate a Jet Ski only if they have passed a boating education course approved by the DNR.

What Should Be Avoided When Anchoring?

Never tie the line to the stern, the additional weight could bring on water. Slowly lower the anchor from the bow, rather than the stern, to avoid cap sizing or swamping. When the anchor has hit bottom and sufficient rode is given out, give a solid pull to set the anchor. Secure and adjust the line.

Can You Drive A Boat Without A Boat License?

No, you cannot drive a boat without a Boat License. You must have your license on board the boat at all times. If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer, you must present your boating license and an identity card.

Can You Have Alcohol On A Boat In Arkansas?

The laws in Arkansas no person shall operate any motorized boat while they are under the influence of alcohol, drugs or a combination thereof.

Do You Have To Have Insurance On A Boat In Arkansas?

Arkansas law requires $50,000 of liability insurance on all personal watercraft with a 50 h.p engine. Boat owners may be asked to produce proof of insurance by law enforcement at any time.