Mandatory boat training coming to CA

[Ronnie]

i just got this notice with my boat registration. Looks like training will be mandatory here in CA in the near future. If I'm reading the notice correctly I will need to take the class in 2023.

 

[Murf'n'surf]

I wonder how this effects the rental market in Cali?

 

[rkluck]

Murf, That is a great question. I know this was sent to whoever registers the boat but this would apply to each person wanting to drive the boat right (co-captain, kids, etc.)? This is probably a good thing as log as they don't start to charge large fees for the classes etc.

 

[Scuba_ref]

Washington State went to that same requirement a number of years ago. This is listed in the exemptions:

• Operators of rented, leased, or chartered vessels must have a copy of the Commission-approved educational checklist in lieu of Boating Safety Education Card when operating a livery vessel.

So, the knuckleheads that operate rented boats and PWCs aren't required to have the mandatory education when ironically they tend to be a larger portion of the boating safety problem.

 

[bobbie]

Oregon too already phased that in. Easy online course.....no biggie.

 

[Bruce]

Arkansas has a similar requirement for anyone born after December 31st 1985.

 

[Chillypilot]

Canada has had this in place for a few years. I think it's a good thing. Besides teaching boating safety and rules there are age restrictions preventing young children operating certain boats and PWC. If you are operating a boat you must have the card with you.

 

[Murf'n'surf]

I would guess that renters would have to "read" and sign off on a multipage document that outlines rules and regs, maybe even watch a 10 minute video.

 

[Scuba_ref]

NOOOOO not a 10 minute video!!!!! I need to drive fast now. Sort of like when Homer Simpson went to buy a gun and had to wait for the background check - "but I'm angry now!"

 

[Gym]

Washington State went to that same requirement a number of years ago. This is listed in the exemptions:

• Operators of rented, leased, or chartered vessels must have a copy of the Commission-approved educational checklist in lieu of Boating Safety Education Card when operating a livery vessel.

So, the knuckleheads that operate rented boats and PWCs aren't required to have the mandatory education when ironically they tend to be a larger portion of the boating safety problem.

This isn't as much about educating the knuckleheads as it is about developing a new revenue stream for the state. New Hampshire has similar regulations but if you don't have the NH license you can buy a weekend license for $$$. So much for education.

 

[Cobra Jet Steering LLC]

If you really want safe boating it's real simple but not very popular, DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE!