How to Get a Boating License in Arkansas
Boating education requirements in Arkansas apply to operators born on or after January 1, 1986. Those born before that date are not subject to the requirement, though taking a course remains optional. Individuals who fall within the covered population must complete a boater-education course approved by the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission, which adheres to standards set by the North American Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA).
The process involves enrolling in an AGFC-approved course, which may be offered online, in-person, or through other formats. After completing the course material, the operator takes a test to demonstrate knowledge of boating safety and regulations. Upon passing, a certificate is issued that serves as the required boating-education card. This credential is valid for life and must be carried while operating a boat.
For current information on approved course providers and any updates to state regulations, the Arkansas Game & Fish Commission maintains official guidance on its website and should be consulted directly.
- Confirm whether you're in the population this state covers (cutoff / age band).
- Take the accepted course: AGFC-approved (NASBLA-approved) Boating Education Course certificate; valid for life.
- Pass the test and receive your card or certificate.
- Carry it aboard whenever you operate, and confirm the current rule on the official state page.
Carry the card every time you operate
Once you’ve earned the card, keep it aboard whenever you operate — many states require you to show it on request, and a card from one state is usually honored in another. If you’ll boat across state lines, check each state’s rule, since the covered ages and accepted credentials differ. Always confirm the current requirement on the official state agency page.
Course & fees for Arkansas → · Full requirements →
Compiled from the official state source, cross-referenced against NASBLA, and verified June 2026. Always confirm the current rule on the official Arkansas Game & Fish Commission (AGFC) page before you rely on it — boating law changes and some states are mid-rollout. How we compile this. Informational only, not legal advice.