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Michigan Boating License Requirements

In Michigan, the requirement applies to anyone born on or after 1 July 1996 operating a vessel of more than 6 hp. The credential is the Michigan Boating Safety Certificate, issued by Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Who needs itborn on or after 1 July 1996
Applies tomore than 6 hp
What it is calledMichigan Boating Safety Certificate
Issued byMichigan Department of Natural Resources
A 6 hp motor is enough to trigger the requirement, so even a small kicker outboard counts.

Buying a boat in Michigan?

A licence makes you legal to operate. It tells you nothing about the boat itself. Run the hull number free — it decodes the builder and model year, and flags any US Coast Guard recall campaign on record for that manufacturer.

Frequently asked

Do I need a boating license in Michigan?

Michigan requires the Michigan Boating Safety Certificate for anyone born on or after 1 July 1996 operating a vessel of more than 6 hp.

Official source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

Compiled September 2026 from Michigan Department of Natural Resources and NASBLA-aligned sources. Boating law changes, and this page is a summary rather than the regulation — confirm with the agency before relying on it. See the states covered here.