Who Needs a Boating License in Arkansas
In Arkansas, a boater-education card is required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1986. The credential must be an AGFC-approved boating education course certificate, which is valid for life. Arkansas recognizes NASBLA-approved certificates from other states as well.
Minimum operating ages vary by vessel type. For motorboats with 10 or more horsepower, operators must be at least 12 years old, though younger individuals may operate under the direct supervision of someone 18 or older. For personal watercraft, the minimum age is 16; operators aged 12 to 15 may use a PWC under direct supervision of an 18-year-old, and children under 12 may operate under supervision of someone 21 or older. Boaters should confirm current requirements and regulations on the official Arkansas Game and Fish Commission website, as rules may change.
| Detail | As the state publishes it |
|---|---|
| Education card required? | Required for some operators |
| Who needs it | born on or after January 1, 1986 |
| Minimum operating age | motorboat 10+ hp: 12 (or any age under direct supervision of someone 18+); PWC: 16 (12-15 with direct supervision of 18+; under 12 with 21+) |
| Accepted credential | AGFC-approved (NASBLA-approved) Boating Education Course certificate; valid for life |
| Reciprocity (other states' cards) | yes |
| Rental / livery rule | Verify on the official state agency page |
| Fees | course/certificate generally free via AGFC-approved providers; no state card fee |
| Administering agency | Arkansas Game & Fish Commission (AGFC) |
Do you need a licence in Arkansas? → · How to get licensed →
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.