The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) has launched a new, low-cost online boating safety education course. 

The course is being offered in partnership with the nonprofit BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water. 

The course will cost $17 and is approved by both the PFBC and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators. The program is also recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard. 

In Pennsylvania, a Boating Safety Education Certificate is required for any person born after January 1, 1982. To receive a certificate, boaters must successfully complete an approved boating safety course. 

Certificates allow boaters to operate boats powered with motors greater than 25 horsepower or any personal watercraft. 

The new course will consist of six lessons and quizzes along with a final exam. The full course can be completed in approximately four to eight hours. 

Individuals who complete the online course will immediately receive a temporary Boater Safety Education Certificate that can be printed and is valid for 60 days. Within four-to-six weeks, students will receive a permanent copy in the mail. 

“Not only does this boating safety course come at a great value and convenience, but it’s also proven that this type of education saves lives,” said Paul Littman, Director of the PFBC’s Bureau of Boating.  “Approximately 75% of boating fatalities occur on boats where the operator did not have any formal boating safety education.  There’s never been a better time to earn your certificate than right now thanks to this partnership.” 

More information on the new course can be found on the PFBC's website.