This eight hour course covers the basics of boating safety, equipment and requirements, navigation, registration and titling, emergency measures and the Illinois boating laws. Passing the written exam at the end of this class allows youth ages 12 to 16 to operate a watercraft on their own.
Throughout the year, many people operate motor-driven watercraft on the Illinois waters and many operate for the first time. So, we encourage individuals––both novice and experienced––to take the course. Each of us has the responsibility to keep this lifetime leisure activity free from tragedy and personal loss to ourselves and our fellow boaters.
This course is primarily designed to train young people between the ages of 12 and 16. Students under the age of 11 may not participate in the exam to recieve certification.
Persons 12 and over completing the minimum eight hours of instruction and successfully completing the final examination will receive a State of Illinois Certificate of Competency. Students between the ages of 11 to 12 years old will receive their certificate upon their 12th birthday.
No person under 10 years of age may operate a motorboat. Age 10 years and less than 12 years of age may only operate under a parent or guardian's direct control.
Families are encouraged to attend together to learn about boating safety.
FREE. Register online below, or by phone at 847-968-3404.
Visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources online for more information about Boating Safety Education.
Bring a lunch and beverage.
All participants should come prepared to provide their date of birth for the state registration process.