How to Get a Boating License in Louisiana
Louisiana requires boaters born after January 1, 1984 to obtain a boater-education card. Those in this age group should first confirm their eligibility, as the requirement applies specifically to individuals meeting this birth-date threshold.
The next step is to complete an approved course. Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries (LDWF) recognizes NASBLA-approved boater-education courses. After completing an accepted course, candidates must pass the associated test to earn their card. Once issued, the boater-education card must be carried while operating a boat.
A free boater-education endorsement is also available to add to a Louisiana driver's license. For the most current list of approved courses and any updates to state regulations, individuals should consult the official Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries website.
- Confirm whether you're in the population this state covers (cutoff / age band).
- Take the accepted course: LDWF-approved (NASBLA-approved) boater education course card; free boater-education endorsement available on the LA driver's license.
- 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 Louisiana → · Full requirements →
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.