Learn All About Brianna’s Law and Whether or Not You Need A Boating License in New York State
With boating season upon us, many may be wondering
about the New York State boating laws and whether or not you need an actual boating
license to operate a personal recreational motorboat. It’s important to know
that although New York
State does not require a
“license,” there is a boating law you should be aware of. Continue reading to
learn more about Brianna’s Law before heading out on the water!
What Is Brianna’s Law?
Signed by Governor Cuomo during the summer of 2019,
New York State passed a new law with the
intention of helping people stay safe while
out on the water. Effective January 1, 2020,“Brianna’s Law,” will require all
operators of motorized boats to have completed boating safety courses by 2025,
regardless of the operator’s age. The boat course must be approved by the
Commissioner of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
Why Is the New York State Boating Safety Law Called “Brianna’s Law?”
Brianna’s Law is named after Brianna Lieneck, an
11-year-old girl who was fatally injured in a boating accident
in 2005 when heading home from Fire Island with her family and family friend.
Brianna’s tragic incident motivated the New York State legislature to
reexamine boating practices and make
strides towards making our waterways safer.
Who Is Affected by Brianna’s Law?
Brianna’s Law will affect everyone who operates a
motorized boat in New York State. While previous laws only required those born
after 1996 to complete a boating safety course, Brianna’s Law indicates that
age is irrelevant. If you plan to operate a motorized boat, you must complete a
boating safety course according to their phase-in plan. This also includes
canoes and small Jon Boats that have electric
motors and are considered motorized crafts.
Under the 5-year phase-in, all motorboat operators
born on or after January 1, 1993 must complete a safety course to operate a motorboat
beginning in 2020.
Those born after January 1, 1988 must complete a
safety course beginning in 2022. Those born on or after January 1, 1983 must
complete a safety course beginning in 2023. Those born on or after January 1,
1978 must complete a safety course beginning in 2024.
The requirement would extend to all motorboat
operators beginning in 2025, regardless of age. Failure to comply could result
in a fine of between $100 and $250.
Where Can I Take a Boating Safety Course?
Boating safety courses are offered at various
times and locations throughout the state. To find a time and location
convenient for you, click here. New York State also offers the
convenience of obtaining the certification online. Click here to view and complete the official
online
New York boating safety course.
Do I Need to Take a Boating Safety Course to Rent a Boat?
There is an exception to
Brianna’s Law and that is if you are at least 18 years old, you don’t need to
complete a course before renting a boat. The marina should demonstrate how to
properly use the boat before renting it. If you rent boats often, you would
benefit from knowing the rules of the water and how to keep yourself, your
passengers and those around you safe. If you’re under the age of 18 you will be
required to have a safety certificate to rent a boat.
When Do I Need to Take a New York State Boating Safety Course By?
In accordance with Brianna’s Law, all motorized
boat operators must have completed a New York State boating safety course by
January 1, 2025 or sooner, depending on the year you were born. That being
said, it doesn’t hurt to start developing good habits and get your boating
safety certificate for the summer ahead! For more information on
the deadlines for obtaining your boating safety certification, check out this link.
Protecting yourself and others also means ensuring
that your motorized boat is properly insured. Click
on the button below to find an agent and discuss coverage options for you and
your boat.
