Boating Education

Boater Education and Training

The boating safety education program has two components - public education and law enforcement training.

Boater Education: Classes and remote learning

Many organizations and government agencies offer education courses or short presentations in proper boat operation. These include the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation (IDPR), the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S. Power Squadron, and several county sheriff's departments. In most cases, boat owners may receive a reduced insurance rate on their boat for completing an approved course.  Classes are designed for teen and adult audiences.  Check the class list below for more information on courses in your area. For information on the Boat Idaho online course,  call 1-800-830-2268 or visit http://www.boat-ed.com/id/index.htm

The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation also offers free brochures and the "Boat Idaho: Your Guide to Responsible Boating" home study workbook to the general public, a video library for safety and boating presenters, and other teaching curriculum for use in public schools at both the elementary and secondary level.

In addition, the department also trains school teachers, marine deputies, and other volunteers to become boating safety instructors. Over 50 instructors have been certified through our 8-hour workshops and serve in their communities. For their efforts, instructors receive a teacher's kit as well as the knowledge they are helping make Idaho waters safer.  If you are interested in becoming a Boater Education Safety Trainer (B.E.S.T.), contact the Boating Education Safety Coordinator.

Current Classes

BOAT IDAHO: Your Guide to Responsible Boating

This ONE-DAY FREE safe boating class is being offered through Idaho Department of Parks & Recreation and is recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard. The subjects covered are:

• Know Your Boat, Before You Get Underway
• Operating Your Boat
• The Legal Requirements of Boating
• Boating Emergencies
• Enjoying Water Sports With Your Boat

Due to hunting season, there are currently no classes scheduled for October-December, 2009. However, if you have a group of people who would like to attend and/or need this free, one-day course, please email the Boating Safety Education Coordinator and let her know you would like a Boat Idaho class.

Boating education classes offered by other groups or organizations 

Contact the class sponsor for more information.

NOTE:  These classes may have a fee. 

U.S. Power Squadron Classes

When:  November 10, 2009
               7:00 p.m.
Where:  Spokane Sail & Power Squadron Clubhouse
                925 W. Jackson Ave.; Spokane, WA 99205
                (S. E. Corner of Jackson/Monroe St.)
Contact:  Jim Roeber by email or call 509-328-6165


When:  February 1, 2010
               12:30 p.m.
Where:  Spokane National Boat Show
                County Fair/Expo Center
                404 N. Havana St.; Spokane Valley, WA 99202
Contact:  Jim Roeber by email or call 509-328-6165


When:  February 1, 2010
               5:30 p.m.
Where:  Spokane National Boat Show
                County Fair/Expo Center
                404 N. Havana St.; Spokane Valley, WA 99202
Contact:  Jim Roeber by email or call 509-328-6165

Required Education in Idaho

Personal watercraft rentals

Click here for more information on Idaho's personal watercraft rental education program.

Alcohol and repeat offenders

In addition to penalties, boaters are required to attend a boating course if they are found guilty of operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Boaters who are repeat offenders of any boating law or rule are also required to attend a boating course.

Learn more about boating safety by clicking here.

Would you like to view our award winning television public service announcements on boating safety, or new boating safety video clips? Just click on the links below. If you do not already have a Quicktime Player, download for free.

Sea Dart

Tristan Jones's Sea Dart is currently being refitted, and we hope to soon start an educational program utilizing this great gift to Idaho.  If you are interested in helping with the Sea Dart, contact the Boating Education Safety Coordinator.

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