Programs

The successful completion of this 8-hour beginner boating class will give you the knowledge and a Completion Certificate needed to obtain a boater’s license/certification in many states. Many boat insurance companies will offer discounts on boating insurance to boaters who successfully complete the Boat America course. Courses are taught by qualified members of the USCG Auxiliary. For Connecticut, the course enables the student to apply for the Connecticut Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation (CPWO). This Certificate allows the holder to operate a boat up to 65’, to operate a personal watercraft and will include the Safe Water Skiing Endorsement.

CT boating certifications rules require all students to be registered on the DEEP website and obtain a Connecticut Conservation Identification Number (ID) prior to taking your Boating Course. Click this link https://ct.aspirafocus.com/internetsales/ to complete the registration process. Follow the instructions for "New Customers.” There is no charge to obtain your conservation ID.

Age Restrictions
-No person under age 16, issued a Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation (CPWO) or a certificate approved by the Commissioner, may operate a personal watercraft without the onboard supervision of a person at least age 18 who has a CPWO.

-No person under the age of 16 may operate a vessel that is engaged in tubing or water-skiing. A child under the age of 16 may be permitted to operate a vessel, other than a personal watercraft, without obtaining a SBC or CPWO, if the youth is under the direct supervision of a person at least age 18 who has had a boating certificate for at least two years.

-A child under the age of 12 who has obtained a SBC or CPWO may not operate a vessel with greater than 10 horsepower, unless the youth is accompanied on board by a person at least age 18 who holds a SBC or CPWO.

The class is 8 hours long in total. Students are required to attend all sessions. While there is no minimum age requirement to take the class, students must be able to attend the 8 hour class and take a 60 question multiple choice test.