New York Boater Exam Practice Test 2026
Under Brianna's Law, everyone who operates a motorized vessel in New York must complete a state-approved, NASBLA-approved safe boating course. This practice test covers New York certificate and PWC rules and the national boating rules taught in the course.
Quick answer
It is run by New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (NYS Parks). Practise here for free with 133 questions, each with the answer and an explanation. Checked against official sources on October 10, 2026.
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Question 1 of 13
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Answer: B. All operators of motorized vessels
Brianna's Law requires all operators of motorized vessels, including personal watercraft and specialty craft, to complete an approved course.
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Question 2 of 13
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Answer: D. No, but they are strongly encouraged to take a course
Operators of non-motorized boats such as kayaks and canoes are not currently required to take the course, but it is strongly encouraged.
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Question 3 of 13
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Answer: B. 10
Students must be at least 10 years old to attend the New York safe boating course.
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Question 4 of 13
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Answer: A. 8 hours
Classroom courses require a minimum of 8 hours of instruction.
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Question 5 of 13
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Answer: A. 90 days
A temporary certificate is valid for 90 days. The permanent certificate usually arrives within that time.
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Question 6 of 13
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Answer: C. For life
Permanent New York boating safety certificates are good for life.
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Question 7 of 13
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Answer: A. Your original certificate; copies do not count
You must have the original physical certificate on you or on board. Copies do not count.
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Question 8 of 13
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Answer: D. No, if the livery gives you basic instruction
People 18 or older may rent and operate a motorized boat, including a PWC, from a livery without a certificate. The livery must give basic instruction.
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Question 9 of 13
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Answer: C. No certificate, but carry a copy of your license
Holders of a valid Coast Guard license do not need a safe boating certificate but must carry a copy of the license.
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Question 10 of 13
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Answer: A. When your home state issued it from a NASBLA-approved course
An out-of-state certificate is recognized only if your current state of residence issued it and the course was NASBLA-approved.
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Question 11 of 13
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Answer: D. A driver license mark that proves boating certification in New York
An anchor icon can be added to a New York driver license or ID. It is proof of certification only within New York State.
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Question 12 of 13
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Answer: D. 14
PWC operators in New York must be 14 or older and must carry a safe boating certificate.
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Question 13 of 13
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Answer: D. After dusk and before dawn
New York prohibits operating any personal watercraft after dusk and before dawn.
Keyboard: 1–4 to answer, Enter for the next question.
What to know before the test
- All operators of motorized vessels, including PWCs, must complete a state-approved safe boating course.
- Students must be at least 10 to take the course. Classroom courses have at least 8 hours of instruction.
- A temporary certificate is valid for 90 days. The permanent certificate is good for life, and you must carry the original.
- People 18 or older may rent a motorboat or PWC from a livery without a certificate after basic instruction.
- PWC operators must be at least 14, and PWC operation after dusk and before dawn is prohibited.
Frequently asked questions
Who needs a boating safety certificate in New York?
Under Brianna's Law, all operators of motorized vessels, including PWCs, must complete an approved course and carry the certificate.
Does the New York boating safety certificate expire?
No. The permanent certificate is good for life.
Can I show a copy of my certificate?
No. You must carry the original physical certificate while operating a motorized boat.
How old do you have to be to drive a jet ski in New York?
At least 14, and you must have a safe boating certificate.