VIRGINIA BOATER SAFETY EDUCATION REQUIREMENT

Everyone operating a personal watercraft (must be at least 14 years old) or a powerboat with 10 horsepower or more (no minimum age) in Virginia must meet Virginia’s requirement for boater safety education.

One way to satisfy this requirement is by taking the US Power Squadron’s ABC Boating Course, an 8-hour course typically offered over several weeks. The Smith Mountain Lake Power Squadron will be offering in-person classes each month starting in March through the summer.

You can also take a free online course from the Boat/US Foundation. The US Coast Guard Auxiliary offers local free in-person classes. Finally, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) offers both free in-person classes and virtual classes. In addition, DWR also coordinates registration of Power Squadron, US Coast Guard Auxiliary and DWR in one convenient online location.

Whichever way you choose, you’ll learn about boating regulations, navigation aids and rules, anchoring, knots, and how to handle on-the-water emergencies. These skills will not only satisfy Virginia’s requirements but will help you have a fun and safe time on the water!