Mandatory Boater Education Passes in Minnesota

The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) celebrates the successful passage of Mandatory Boater Education Legislation in its home state of Minnesota. This landmark legislation marks a significant step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of boaters and all who enjoy aquatic recreation throughout the Land of 10,000 Lakes.  

The new law, signed May 24 by Governor Walz, uses a phase-in approach to eventually require nearly every boater in Minnesota to complete a boater-education course and obtain a boater-education card before operating a motorized watercraft. The legislation is the result of collaborative efforts between the recreational boating industry, boating safety advocates, and lawmakers who recognized the importance of promoting safe boating practices throughout Minnesota. The MRAA aligned with the National Marine Manufacturers Association, the Water Sports Industry Association and local Minnesota stakeholders to successfully pass the bill.  

Boater education courses provide beneficial instruction on navigation rules, safe boating practices, emergency procedures and environmental responsibility. Minnesota, through this mandated education, is taking proactive measures to reduce accidents and fatalities on its waterways, ensuring a safer recreational boating experience for everyone. Boater education is required in 36 U.S. states. 

Mandatory boater education in Minnesota will use a phased-in approach, and by 2028 will require anyone born on or after July 1, 1987, to pass a course and receive a boater education certificate. The program will go into effect beginning on July 1, 2025, requiring anyone born on or after July 1, 2004, to take the course. The program must be approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), meaning out-of-state boaters who have passed an NASBLA-approved course can legally operate a boat in Minnesota. The Minnesota course, available online and in-person, will be offered by a variety of providers.