It’s lake season! Children, teens and parents can agree that there’s something about driving a boat or jet ski, swimming in the lake and grilling on the dock that’s undeniably fun.
Did you know that this week is National Safe Boating Week? In addition to offering boating safety information on pages 44 and 45 of this month’s issue, we want to give you a little insight to the Georgia Boating Education Card (also known as the Georgia Boating License) that you might be unaware of, or unaware of how accessible the exam is.
It’s available online
What used to be a half day class on the lake is now available as an online course. The study material is supplied. The course cost $29.95 and has a “no pass, no pay” policy, meaning you don’t pay until you pass the exam. Once you pass, you can print a temporary card until your official one arrives in the mail 3-5 weeks later.
What does it cover?
Any and everything to do with boating safety. From which side of the lake to drive on, boating terminology, engine types and so much more. This is a fantastic, low budget resource everyone needs take advantage of.
Who can take the exam?
There are no age limits as to who can take the exam. However, children 12 years old and under may only operate a vessel less than 16’ in length, 30 horsepower or less and must be accompanied by an adult.
Those 12-15 years old can only drive a class A vessel without a parent or guardian(16’ in length or less) if they have completed the boat education course. Otherwise an adult must be supervising.
The same rules apply for operating a personal watercraft.
If you are 16 years or older, you may operate any kind of motor-powered boat or personal watercraft as long as you have proper identification on hand. However, it is strongly recommend that teens and adults take this course to ensure the lake is a safe place for all its occupants.
Make this a family activity
Take the exam as a family. Study together and use each other as resources to help better your knowledge on boating safety. While the lake is a fun place, accidents happen, but with proper education we can lessen the number of accidents on the water. You’re never too old to brush up on safety lessons of any kind.