Utah boaters now have access to the state’s only free approved boating course, launched by the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water.  

Approved by the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, the course meets state boating requirements. In Utah, boaters between the ages of 12 and 17 are mandated to pass an approved boating safety course to operate personal watercraft. In addition, all boaters are required to complete a free mussel-aware boater course to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.  

“Utah has more than 100 lakes in the region, highlighting why accessible boating safety education matters so much,” says Lynne O’Hearn, program manager at BoatUS Foundation. “When boating safety resources are easy to navigate and fun to complete, it helps people make smarter decisions before they ever leave the dock.”   

The course typically takes four to eight hours to complete and is self-guided. It includes interactive modules where students “boat” to various locations and map how far they have traveled. The course also features interactive and dynamic videos that enhance learning.  

“Ensuring Utah boaters enjoy our waterways safely is very important to us. As stewards of outdoor recreation, we want our boaters well educated about waterway rules and aware of how to stay safe while they enjoy all that Utah has to offer,” says Ty Hunter, boating program manager at the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation.  

Upon successful completion of the course, students can print their Utah boating safety certificate and have the option of ordering a waterproof Utah plastic card for $15.