Does the State of New Hampshire require a boating license?
Yes, the State of New Hampshire mandates that anyone who operates a motorboat over 25 horsepower or a ski craft motorized vessel less than 13 feet long that is capable of exceeding 20 miles per hour and has the capacity to carry no more than an operator and one other person must have a boating education certificate. Minimum age to operate and obtain a certificate is 16.
Does the State of New Hampshire accept boating licenses obtained from other places?
Yes, the State of New Hampshire will accept the following licenses:
- A boating certificate issued by another State agency and NASBLA approved.
- A boating certificate issued by the US Power Squadron.
- A boating certificate issued by the US Coast Guard Auxiliary.
- An unexpired commercial boating license issued by the US Coast Guard.
- An unexpired commercial boating license issued by the State of New Hampshire.
I am visiting on vacation and would like to boat but do not have a valid license, is there a temporary license option?
Under the provisions of New Hampshire RSA 270-D:14, a 14 Day Temporary Certificate is available. The 14 day certificate is a short term solution to being licensed and thus can only be applied for only once a calendar year.
What do I need to do to obtain a 14 day temporary license?
You must be at least 16 years of age and get at least an 80% to pass the test. If you fail you may take the test on another date but it can not be the same day; you must wait at least 24 hours. You must provide picture identification at the time of the test.
Where can I take the 14 day temporary license test?
Many facilities that rent boats also administer the temporary license test. It is best to call first to make sure someone qualified to administer it will be there. Visit the New Hampshire Department of Safety website for a list of sites that administer the test.
Where can I study before taking the 14 day temporary license test?
More information that you can use to prepare for your New Hampshire temporary boating license test can be found on the New Hampshire Department of Safety website.