Learn the fundamentals of safe boat handling and operation plus basic piloting in this comprehensive classroom course. This newly revised course will give you the basics of line throwing, knot tying, boat handling, anchoring, navigation rules and aids, emergencies on the water and more.
More Information
Our organization's primary goal is to promote safe boating by offering courses in all aspects of boating: seamanship, navigation, cruise plannig, use of electronics, marine weather forecasting, engine maintenance, sailing, and more.
Members can take advantage of events with interesting speakers, draw on the knowledge of experienced boats, and build friendships with people with the same love of the water.
Apr 22 - Staten Island ABC Course for NYS Certification details
Apr 26 - Boating Safety Course for NYS Certificate details
Jun 16 - Boat Handling (Seamanship) Course details
Jun 29 - City Island SPS 2025 Blessing of the Fleet details
May 15 - Raritan Bay - Spring Fling Social details
July 12 - Shrewsbury & Raritan Bay Picnic & Aucti details
Message from the Commander Joe Velez
April 2025
Friends,
I frequently hear this important question concerning U.S. boating certificate documentation: “Is a state issued Safe Boating Certificate valid in other states in the US?”
Answer:
Yes, a state issued Safe Boating Certificate, particularly if NASBLA-approved, is generally valid in other US states that require mandatory boater education, a practice known as Reciprocity. A more detailed explanation is as follows:
Reciprocity:
Many states have agreements to recognize boating certifications from other states, meaning a valid certificate in one state is accepted in another.
NASBLA Approval: USPS Boating Courses approved by NASBLA meet national standards and are generally accepted by states that require boater education. Look for the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) logo on your certificate, as this indicates the course meets national standards.
State Requirements:
While reciprocity is common, it's always a good idea to check the specific requirements of the state where you plan to boat to ensure your certificate is accepted and to understand any time limitations on its validity. Some states have specific requirements or restrictions, including:
· Stricter Requirements: Some states, like Colorado, may require a proctored exam for out-of-state certifications.
· Different Age Requirements: Age restrictions for boat operation can vary between states.
· Vessel-Specific Requirements: Rules can differ based on the type of vessel or engine size.
· Short-Term Boating: Some states allow out-of-state certificates for a limited time, which varies by state.
Check State Regulations: Before boating in another state, confirm the specific requirements of that state's boating authority (e.g., Fish and Wildlife agency). Visit the NASBLA website for state-specific information and their interactive "Education Requirements by State" Dashboard.
Boating Safety Course:
You can get a boater education card by completing an official boating safety course through one of our scheduled, United States Power Squadrons courses, taking the exam, and ordering your card online.
Boater Education Card:
A boater education card demonstrates you've met the minimum standards for safe and responsible boating, which is important no matter where you are on the water. Always carry your boater education card with you when boating.
Cordially,
D/C Joe Velez
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District 4 of the United States Power Squadrons is an active participant in the USPS Vessel Safety Check program. Click the green logo for information on how to schedule an inspection in your area. Click the buttons below for information on other USPS information useful to boaters. National Safe Boating Test America's Boating Course State Boating Information |
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