New Jersey Boat License Requirements

In addition to a New Jersey Boating Safety Certificate, a boat license is required to operate a vessel on non-tidal waters (water where the tide does not change) in the State of New Jersey. A boat license is not a replacement for the NJ Boating Safety Certificate; it is an additional requirement.

NOTE: Out-of-state residents with written proof of the successful completion of a boat safety course are exempt from the New Jersey boat license requirement.

How To Get Your License

To obtain your NJ boat license, visit to your nearest NJ Division of Motor Vehicle Commission Facility. You must bring and present your NJ Boating Safety Certificate to apply for a boat license.

Exemptions

A boat license is NOT required for the operation of:

• Non-powered vessels

• Vessels less than 1 horsepower

• Vessels powered by 12-volt electric trolling motors

• Vessels 12-feet or longer with less than 10 total HP