Boating Course & Fees in Louisiana
Louisiana requires boaters to complete an approved boater education course and obtain a boater safety credential. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) offers a free in-person boater education course that meets NASBLA standards. Upon successful completion, boaters receive an approved course card. Additionally, Louisiana offers a free boater education endorsement that can be added to a state driver's license at no cost.
The LDWF course and endorsement are both provided at no charge to participants. Those seeking boater education through alternative providers should verify current pricing, as course fees vary by vendor. Individuals interested in taking the LDWF course should contact the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries directly for current schedule information and registration details.
| Detail | As the state publishes it |
|---|---|
| Accepted credential / course | LDWF-approved (NASBLA-approved) boater education course card; free boater-education endorsement available on the LA driver's license |
| Fees | free (LDWF offers a free in-person course; driver's-license endorsement also free) |
| Card required? | Education card required |
Course costs vs. card fees
Two different prices are at play: the boater-safety course (often free or low-cost, set by the approved vendor) and any state card or processing fee. Several states offer a free NASBLA-approved course — for example through the BoatUS Foundation — so the card can cost little beyond a small state fee. Vendor prices change, so confirm the current course list and fees on the official state agency page.
Step-by-step: how to get licensed → · Do you need a licence? →
Compiled from the official state source, cross-referenced against NASBLA, and verified June 2026. Always confirm the current rule on the official Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries (LDWF) page before you rely on it — boating law changes and some states are mid-rollout. How we compile this. Informational only, not legal advice.