Online boating certification

 
Something about that picture strikes me. Maybe its the craft's name. Maybe it's the prototypical image of the power-boater with more horsepower than brains. In any case, its a great reminder that Spring is a good time to brush up on your boating rules.
Although there is no requirement for adults (18+) to pass any test or certification to operate a watercraft in Minnesota, the state does offer certification, and an on-line course. Its a good idea, because some states (and Canada) require a certificate to operate boats in their waters. The Minnesota certification cost $20 to take the test on-line, but the great news is that you can actually follow the study-guides and take the test for free, and you are only charged if you want the certificate. Offered in partnership with Boat-Ed.com, the on-line study-guide does a VERY good job covering the rules and regulations, and it actually does a much better job of explaining the right-of-way relationships between sailing and powered vessels than the DNR documents do. A very good way to brush up on the rules on some rainy spring night!

You can access the MN Boating Certificate course HERE

All of the MN DNR's boating documents are on-line HERE

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