As of July 1, 2014, all persons born on or after January 1, 1998 that operate any motorized vessel on the waters of the state must have completed a boat education course approved by the department prior to such operation. A person is exempt if he or she is:
a person licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard as a master of a vessel;
a person operating on a private lake or pond;
a non-resident who has in his or her possession proof that he or she has completed a NASBLA approved boater education course or equivalency examination from another state.
Following are the various ways that you can take a boating education course, including classroom, home study and online. Some have an associated cost, while others are free - find the one that suits you best and make sure you are safe on the water!
Classroom Courses:
DNR Law Enforcement: (click here, select Boat Education and your County to obtain a local phone number to call about classes scheduled in your area.)
US Coast Guard Auxiliary 7th District (Courses may include some cost to cover materials - ask for full details from class contact person before enrolling) Lake Lanier Flotilla 29 Boating Education Courses. Find a Class Lake Allatoona Flotilla 22 Boating Education Courses. Find a Class
US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 10-10 7th District, St Simons Island, GA
Atlanta Sail & Power Squadron, Check this website for boating safety classes offered around Lake Lanier and Lake Allatoona.
Home Study Courses:
Boat-Ed Go online or Call 1-800-460-9698 to order book, test and VHS tape ($24.95 + $5 shipping).
United States Power Squadron-America's Boating Course ($34.95 plus S&H will give you a 224-page manual and CD for home study AND a "pin" number if you prefer to take the course online).
