Boater Education

Nebraska alone has in excess of 84,000 power boats. This does not include nearly an equal number of vessels that do not require registration such as canoes, row boats, sail boats and inflatables.

Unfortunately, boating accidents continue to take their toll, with care lessness and inattention the leading causes. Many injuries and thousands of dollars of equipment damages as well as several lives could be saved each year if all boaters followed the rules and adhered to good safety practices.

Nebraska law requires any motorboat operator (including personal watercraft) under 18 years of age must complete a Boating Safety Course and be in possession of a course certificate when operating the boat. You must be at least 14 years of age to operate a motorboat (including personal watercraft) in Nebraska. Classes are offered throughout the sate. The course is a six-hour course with a proctored exam. You must have a 75% to pass the exam. Successful completion of boating safety courses certified or recognized by other states will be accepted for non-resident motorboat operators. Responsibility lies iwth the operator. Successful completion of boating safety courses certified or recognized by other states will be accepted for non-resident motorboat operators. Responsibility lies with the operator.

In an effort to promote safer boating practices, the Game and Parks Commission offers The Nebraska Boating Basics Course. An excellent way for the "whole crew" to learn more about boating, this course covers all aspects of boating including:

• Choosing the Right Boat
• Basic Hull Designs
• The various types of Recreational Boats, Motors
• What Boats Need to be Registered
• Personal Flotation Devices(life jackets)
• Lighting Requirements
• Navigation Rules
• Waterway Markings
• Boat Operation
• Weather an
• Water Information and much more

All students who pass this course(an exam is given) will be issued a Certificate of Completion. A number of insurance companies offer discounts on boat insurance for those who successfully complete this course.

For further information on boater education courses contact Herb Angell at (402) 471-5579 or email:Herb.Angell@ngpc.ne.gov

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Boating Education
2200 N. 33rd St.
Lincoln, NE. 68503