Remember to get your California Boaters Card this year if you’re 45 years or younger.  As of January 1, 2022, California law requires that all boaters 45 years of age or younger carry the Boater Card. The requirements beginning January 1, 2023, is for all boaters 50 years of age or younger to carry the Boater Card.
By 2025, all boaters regardless of age will be required to obtain the card.
This California law also requires a person to be 16 years of age or older and in possession of his/her California Boater Card to legally operate a vessel powered by a motor of 15 hp or more, and this includes all  personal watercraft.
The card is issued by the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW). It confirms that its holder has successfully taken and passed a NASBLA*/state-approved boater safety education examination.  The California Boater Card program has a schedule for phase-in by age for operators of motorized boats on all state waterways so that by 2025 all boaters, regardless of age must carry this card.

How do you get the California Boaters Card?

There is a written test you take to get the card. It’s offered on-line by delegated providers and can be taken on many devices including mobile. There is a charge for the online course and varies form provider to provider.  Here is a link from the Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) of providers. Check prices as they vary. There are 50 questions on the test and you should be able to complete the test within a couple of hours. Most test providers allow you to save and return to the test if time is an issue.
After you take the test, the provider gives you a certificate of completion.  Now you’re ready to apply.  Go to teh DBW official Boaters Card site to apply. Here is the link to make your on-line application.  Once the DBW has received your application, course certificate and the $10 card payment fee, you’ll receive a 90-day temporary boater card by email. You should receive your official boater card by mail within 30 days from the time the application was approved.

Where can I find study materials for the test?

The teat providers all have study materials online. Here is a link for study materials from one provider so you get a clear idea of the knowledge you need to have to pass the test.
Good luck and safe boating!