Free Tennessee State Boating Safety Course
The BoatUS Foundation’s Online Course is the only FREE Online Boating Safety Course approved by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency ages 12 and up.
State Approved
About the Course
What is the course about and why do I need it?
This free online course teaches you everything you need to operate a boat safely and legally in Tennessee including navigation rules, safety equipment, handling emergencies, and protecting the environment.
3-5
Hours to Complete
5
Lessons
60
Final Exam Questions
35
Approved States
learn online at your own pace
What is the format of the course?
You’ll learn through interactive lessons, videos, and quizzes, then pass a final exam to earn your state-approved boating safety certificate.
Complete the course at your own pace and gain the skills and confidence to get out on the water.
State Education Requirements
How do I get a Tennessee boating safety education certificate?
Enroll yourself in a Boating Safety Course from the Course Catalog.
Study and pass the Boating Safety Course.
Print out your certificate of completion.
1
Enroll
2
Take Course
3
Pass Exam
4
Print Certificate
Age Requirements:
Boat operators ages 12 and up must successfully complete a boater education course approved by the TWRA. After completion of an approved course and passing the final exam in a proctored testing center, a card will be issued as proof of completion. The boating safety education certificate issued by the TWRA is the ONLY card recognized and accepted as meeting the requirements of the law for Tennessee residents. This card must be in the possession of operators and available to show law enforcement personnel.
Any non-resident boater operating a boat in Tennessee who falls within this age requirement must show proof of successful passage of a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) approved boater education course.
Persons under 12 years of age may not operate a powered vessel or PWC unless an adult is on board that can take immediate control.
An exception is made if the boat is powered by an outboard motor of 8.5 horsepower (hp) or less. A further exception is made for unaccompanied operators between the ages of 10 and 12 if the boat is over 14 feet long, powered by an outboard motor of less than 15 hp and the person has successfully completed boating education course approved by the TWRA.
When loaning your motorboat or PWC, be certain that they have met the minimum age and education requirements and understand all applicable Tennessee laws.
Under no circumstances can PWCs be rented to anyone younger than 16 years of age.
Other Information:
To get your official TWRA Boating Safety Education Certificate, follow these simple steps:
1. Buy a Boating Safety Exam Permit (Type 600) GoOudoorsTennessee.com or from any business that sells hunting and fishing licenses. Make sure to check your address to ensure your card gets sent correctly.
2. Register with BoatUS Foundation to take the state course and pass the Final Exam. The course and final exam are free.
3. Print your Tennessee Boater Safety Education Certificate after successfully completing the online course.
4. Go boating, safely and responsibly!
Frequently Asked Questions
For all questions about your state’s Free Boating Safety Course, visit our Support Center.