Mandatory Certifications
When out on the waters, it is important to be safe. The best way to do that is to arm yourself with knowledge. The following are a few pages that can help you on this journey. In addition to making you a safer boater, some of the education is required to operate certain vessels.
More information About Mandatory Education: |
Boating Safety Education Requirement |
Thrill Craft (PWC)/Jet Ski Education Requirements |
Tow-in Surfing Requirements |
More information about Safety and Requirements: |
Boating – Motorized Vessel FAQs |
Thrill Craft (PWC/Jet Ski) FAQs |
Tow-in Surfing FAQs |
Certified Boater Registry (optional)
Enroll in DOBOR’s optional Hawaiʻi Certified Boater Registry after your approved course to upload and securely store your credentials—useful if originals are lost—and get a free boating safety card mailed to you. Registry listing does not replace the hardcopy requirement. All submitted information is confidential and accessible only to authorized DLNR staff and law enforcement. All vessel operators on Hawai‘i ocean waters must carry a hardcopy proof of boating safety education while operating—officers may request it with photo ID, and failure to present valid certification may result in a fine or voyage termination. This is for Boating Credentials only, we do not have a Registry for Thrill Craft or Tow-in Surfing credentials.
