Who Needs a Boating License in Maryland
Maryland requires boating safety education for certain operators. Anyone born on or after July 1, 1972, must obtain a Maryland Certificate of Boating Safety Education before operating a motorboat or personal watercraft in state waters. The certificate is earned through a NASBLA-approved course and remains valid for life without renewal. Operators born before July 1, 1972, are exempt from the certificate requirement.
Age thresholds for operation vary by watercraft type. Personal watercraft operators must be at least 16 years old and must hold the required certificate. Motorboat operators born on or after July 1, 1972, must possess the certificate, though state law does not establish a statutory minimum age for motorboat operation itself. Maryland recognizes boating safety certificates issued by other states, provided they meet reciprocity standards. Individuals should confirm current requirements and any recent regulatory changes with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources or the official state boating safety agency before operating any vessel.
| Detail | As the state publishes it |
|---|---|
| Education card required? | Education card required |
| Who needs it | born on or after July 1, 1972 |
| Minimum operating age | PWC: 16 (with certificate); motorboat: no statutory minimum but operator must hold the certificate if born on/after July 1 1972 |
| Accepted credential | Maryland Certificate of Boating Safety Education (NASBLA-approved course); lifetime, non-revocable |
| Reciprocity (other states' cards) | yes |
| Rental / livery rule | Non-resident renters covered by visitor exemptions (out-of-state numbered vessel 60 days or less; foreign visitor 90 days or less); liveries must provide rental-vessel safety information |
| Fees | no state certificate/application fee; course cost varies by vendor (~$40; BoatUS free option) |
| Administering agency | Maryland DNR, Natural Resources Police |
Do you need a licence in Maryland? → · 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 Maryland DNR, Natural Resources Police page before you rely on it — boating law changes and some states are mid-rollout. How we compile this. Informational only, not legal advice.