A boating license is a legal document issued by the a particular state’s motor vehicle department and is required in order to man any sea vessel. The qualifications and guidelines tend to vary from state to state but the license is mandatory in order to own and operate a boat. The age and type of watercraft owned by the applicant are factors in the kind of license you get but to ensure that one is acquired at all, steps should be taken to make sure you pass the boating exam.

In order to have the best chance of passing the boat exam, you will need to first make sure that you are fully familiarized with your vessel. Learn about its make and model by studying the object’s owner’s manual. Later, when you’re ready, ask an adult family member or friend to accompany you out on the water. For your safety, stay only in calm and open waters away from other vehicles.

This will be the most helpful method of learning to operate your boat. The hands on experience will ensure that you are both comfortable with the craft and more aware of its basic rules. These include what to do when approaching another boat, the proper way to pass under a bridge, the purpose of buoys, and how to read currents.

Most states require that prospective boaters get at least fifty hours of chaperoned boating before they attempt the exam. Your state may ask less of you, but you should still only take the test when you feel you are completely ready for it.

You will also need to get yourself comfortable with the general maintenance of the vehicle. These aspects include understanding how many people are allowed to be on your boat at one time and the maximum amount of weight the craft can accommodate. Test takers will be required to know how to fuel a boat, whether on land or water, as well.

The general laws of the water will need to be studied too. Following the rules is necessary for you and your passengers safety and it’s also the law. For one thing, your vessel should be equipped with a working fire extinguisher and you need to know how to use it. You’ll also need to be aware that, when the boat is out on the water, it’s your responsibility to have enough life jackets for everyone on board.

As far as water sports go, you need to be fully aware of how to handle situations where the boat comes near anyone that is kayaking, water skiing, or tubing. In the same vein, understanding how to operate you craft while some of your passengers engage in these actions is also important.

Remember that boating emergencies are always a possibility. Responsible drivers are ones that know how to handle themselves in cases of drownings, crashes, injuries, and other accidents. The boating exam will definitely test you in several different scenarios so be sure to read up on the proper protocol.

Author Bio: Unleash your inner Magellan. Sort out a boat test and hit the high seas. Summer is here, get a validated boat license or pleasure craft operator card and set sail.

Category: Recreation
Keywords: boating license, boat exam, recreation, lifestyle, hobby, family,water sports, business, culture