What you need to know about Arkansas boat licenses
Arkansas requires anyone operating a motorboat to hold a boating safety certificate, not a traditional "license." You get this certificate by passing an online or in-person course approved by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, then taking a final exam. The certificate is free once you pass — there is no license fee in Arkansas, though the course itself may charge a small fee depending on the provider you choose.
The requirement applies to anyone born on or after January 1, 1986, who operates any boat with a motor of 10 horsepower or more. If you were born before that date, you are not required to hold a certificate, though taking the course is still an option. The certificate is valid for life — you do not renew it.
Key Takeaways
- Arkansas requires a boating safety certificate for anyone born after January 1, 1986, who operates a motorboat with 10 horsepower or more.
- You obtain the certificate by completing an approved course and passing an exam; there is no separate license fee.
- The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission maintains a list of approved course providers, both online and in-person.
- Your certificate is valid for life and does not need to be renewed.
- You must carry proof of your certificate when operating a boat, or you risk a fine.
Where to take the boating safety course
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission approves multiple course providers. You can find the current list on their website under "Boating Safety." Some providers offer online courses that you can complete at your own pace, while others hold in-person classes at specific times and locations.
Online courses typically take two to four hours to complete and cost between $15 and $35, depending on the provider. In-person classes are often free or low-cost but require you to attend at a scheduled time. Both routes cover the same material: boat operation, safety equipment, navigation rules, and what to do in an emergency.
After finishing the course, you take a final exam. Most online providers give you the exam when ready after the course ends. In-person classes usually give you the exam on the same day. You need to score at least 80 percent to pass.
What happens after you pass the exam
Once you pass, the course provider issues your boating safety certificate. Online providers typically email it to you as a PDF that you can print or save to your phone. In-person providers usually hand you a physical card on the spot.
You must carry your certificate with you whenever you operate a boat. A Game and Fish officer can ask to see it at any time. If you cannot show it, you may receive a fine. Keep a copy at home as well, in case you lose the one you carry.
Who does not need a certificate
If you were born before January 1, 1986, you are not required to hold a boating safety certificate. However, you still must follow all other boating laws, including wearing a life jacket if required and operating safely.
Passengers do not need their own certificate — only the person operating the boat. If you are renting a boat, the rental company may require you to show a certificate or may offer a brief safety orientation instead, depending on their policy.
Boating safety rules you should know
Beyond the certificate requirement, Arkansas law requires all boats to carry certain safety equipment. Every boat must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board. Boats 16 feet or longer must also carry a throwable flotation device, a fire extinguisher, and a visual distress signal.
Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and carries the same penalties as driving under the influence on land. You must also follow speed limits in designated areas and give way to other boats according to navigation rules. The boating safety course covers all of these rules in detail.
What to bring and how to prepare
For an online course, you only need a computer or phone with internet access and a quiet space where you can focus. Most providers do not require you to create an account beforehand — you can start the course when ready after finding a provider.
For an in-person class, check the provider's website or call ahead to find out what time the class starts, where it meets, and whether you need to bring anything. Most classes do not require advance registration, but some do. Bring a photo ID and be ready to take notes, since the exam covers the material from the course.
If you lose or damage your certificate
If you lose your certificate or it becomes damaged, contact the course provider that issued it. They can usually issue a replacement or a duplicate copy. Some providers charge a small fee for replacements, while others issue them free. Keep the contact information for your provider in a safe place so you can reach them if needed.
If you cannot locate your original provider, you can take the course again with a different approved provider. This is faster than trying to track down a replacement, and you will have a new certificate in hand the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the boating safety course online if I live in Arkansas?
Yes. The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission approves online courses that you can complete from home. You take the exam online as well, and receive your certificate by email. The entire process typically takes a few hours.
What if I fail the exam on my first try?
Most course providers allow you to retake the exam at no extra cost. You may need to review the course material again before your second attempt. Check with your provider about their retake policy when you sign up.
Do I need a certificate to operate a canoe or kayak?
No. The certificate requirement applies only to motorboats with 10 horsepower or more. Canoes, kayaks, and sailboats without motors do not require a certificate, though all boaters should still follow safety rules and wear life jackets.
Can I use a certificate from another state?
Arkansas recognizes boating safety certificates from other states if they meet federal standards. However, you should carry proof that your out-of-state certificate is valid. If you plan to boat in Arkansas regularly, taking an Arkansas course ensures you have a certificate that is clearly recognized.
How much does the boating safety certificate cost?
The certificate itself is free once you pass the exam. The course may cost between $0 and $35 depending on whether you choose an online or in-person provider. Check the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website for a list of providers and their current fees.