New York Boating License Requirements

In New York, the requirement applies to anyone every operator, at any age operating a vessel of any motorized vessel. The credential is the New York Boating Safety Certificate, issued by New York State Parks.

Who needs itevery operator, at any age
Applies toany motorized vessel
What it is calledNew York Boating Safety Certificate
Issued byNew York State Parks
Brianna's Law finished phasing in on 1 January 2025. It covers every motorboat regardless of engine size, plus PWC and airboats.

Buying a boat in New York?

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 New York?

New York requires the New York Boating Safety Certificate for anyone every operator, at any age operating a vessel of any motorized vessel.