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Did you know that It’s the law that a person who is at least 13 years of age or is born on or after September 1, 1993 may operate WITHOUT SUPERVISION ONLY if he or she has PASSED a Texas Boater Education Course? This includes the following vessels - a powerboat powered by a motor of more than 15 horsepower, a personal watercraft (jet ski) or a windblown vessel over 14 feet in length.

 

The class is designed for adults, but middle school and high school kids do fine. Younger kids could come with a parent and just sit in, and decide at the end of the day whether they want to try the test. The Texas Boater Education Course is mandatory for boaters age 13-17, in order to operate any watercraft without being accompanied on board by someone at least 18 years of age.  Boaters under the age of 13 may operate a craft, but must always be accompanied by a person at least 18 years of age. 

 

Class fee is $25 payable to U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and $15 for each additional family member. The Texas Safe Boating card, $10 payable to Texas Parks & Wildlife for those passing the USCG Aux test at the end of class. Lunch is free, donated by Friends of the River San Bernard. 

 

An on-site boat safety inspection is also planned on the same day. You do not have to take the boating safety class to have your boat inspected. Folks can trailer in their boats or come by water to the FOR Community Center dock for a no-cost, no-fault safety inspection. There is no fine or penalty for not passing, the boat owner gets a checklist of what needs to be corrected, and the USCG AUX will then arrange to complete the inspection at a later date. 

 

Registration is required for classroom participation only.