Do you need a boating license to rent a boat in VA?
So if I rent or lease a boat, I’m exempt from the boating safety education requirement? No – you must participate in the training program offered by the boat or jet ski rental business. They will provide you with the documentation you need to comply with Virginia’s education requirement. To legally operate a jet ski in Virginia, you must complete a state-approved boater education course and obtain a boating safety certificate. This certificate serves as your license to operate personal watercraft and is mandatory for all operators older than 14 years of age.You can obtain your Virginia Boating Safety Education Certificate in 3 easy steps: Pay the one-time fee of $39. Study the Virginia Boaters Safety Course, and pass the end-of-chapter quizzes.Persons 65 years of age or older do not need a saltwater license but must comply with the Virginia Fisherman Identification Program (FIP) requirements. Any person not fishing but aiding a disabled license holder.Do you need a boat license to rent? Everyone who intends to drive must be at least 16 with a valid Driver’s License and NASBLA Boater’s License. All drivers are required to be present at the time of pick-up. Boater’s Licenses may be obtained through NASBLA or VA DWR.You need boating education in Virginia if you are 14 years and older and you will be operating a boat powered by a motor of 10 hp or more or a PWC. This course is approved by the state of Virginia and, once successfully completed, will result in your Virginia Boating Certification.
Does Virginia require boat insurance?
Boat insurance isn’t required by Virginia law, but some marinas may mandate boat liability coverage. In addition, if you lease or finance your watercraft, your lender may require comprehensive and collision coverages for your boat, which may pay to repair or replace your damaged or stolen watercraft. General Requirements Must be 27 years or older with a valid driver’s license to rent and operate a pontoon boat. Boating safety certification is required per Virginia law. If you don’t have one, a temporary boater’s license can be obtained by completing the online course here. The maximum capacity must not be exceeded.Most states honor valid boating licenses from other jurisdictions, provided they meet the basic standards for boater education and safety.
What is required to have on a boat in VA?
There must be one wearable U. S. Coast Guard approved life jacket for each person on the boat. This includes all boats including paddlecraft (canoes, kayaks, and stand up paddleboards). Each life jacket needs to be in good and serviceable condition. All boaters (including paddlers) are required to carry at least one, Coast Guard approved, Type I, II or III life jacket when operating on Virginia’s waters. Even though adults are not required to wear life jackets at all times while boating, you should always WEAR IT Virginia!Summary of Virginia Boating Equipment Requirements Manually-Propelled Vessels (Canoes, Kayaks, SUPs, etc. The operator, each rider, and anyone being towed behind a PWC must be wearing a USCG-approved wearable life jacket suitable for that activity. Inflatable life jackets are prohibited. Except non-motorized vessels.
Can you drink beer on a boat in Virginia?
In a car or truck, you cannot have an open container of alcohol. By contrast, passengers on a boat are allowed to drink. This applies both to when the boat is stopped and when it is moving. The person piloting the boat may be tempted to imbibe too, but this is against Virginia law. Passengers Can Drink (But Captains Cannot) In most states, passengers may legally consume alcohol on a boat, but the operator must remain sober. Boating and alcohol don’t mix when you’re at the helm, and it’s essential to know your state’s specific laws.Alcohol impairs vision, alertness, and reaction time. It impairs your judgment, and it’s particularly deadly out on the water. One alcoholic drink while boating can have the same effect as three on land. Alcohol is a contributing factor in many boating accidents, including about one third of all fatalities.
Is a Virginia boating license good in all states?
Yes! The BOATsmart! Card is accepted in 40 other states, which extend reciprocity to certified boaters. This law applies to operators of motorized boats (who have taken and passed a NASBLA approved boating safety course), but does not apply in all states to operators of personal watercraft (PWCs). You need boating education in Virginia if you are 14 years and older and you will be operating a boat powered by a motor of 10 hp or more or a PWC. This course is approved by the state of Virginia and, once successfully completed, will result in your Virginia Boating Certification.No person under the age of 14 may operate a PWC. Those operators 14 and 15 MUST show proof of completing an approved and accepted boating safety course either in a classroom or online.As a general rule, you need a boater’s license to drive any motorized, recreational boat — everything from a bass boat to a jet ski. There are always exceptions, of course, so check your state regulations for details. For example, if you’re sailing without a motor on board, you may not need to complete the course.
How much does it cost to get a boating license in VA?
You can obtain your Virginia Boating Safety Education Certificate in 3 easy steps: Pay the one-time fee of $39. Study the Virginia Boaters Safety Course, and pass the end-of-chapter quizzes. For only $ 39. This price includes: The online boating safety course available for one year. It can be completed at your own pace; in one shot, or over several days.