Safety is not just a theoretical thing. It is something that can save lives.
— Patrick Cassidy, owner New England Maritime
Ready for New Boating Regulations?
On April 1, operators of motorized boats will need a new certificate with them on the water. What is a boating safety certificate and why should you care?
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20 March 2026 – DENNIS, MA – Starting April 01, anyone operating a motorized boat in Massachusetts — no matter what size the motor — will need to have a boating safety certificate card onboard.
When do the new rules start?
The new rules go into effect in two stages: in April 2026 it applies anyone born after 1989, while in April 2028 it applies to everyone, regardless of age or experience.
Why focus on safety?
Water flows wild and powerful … and can lethal, as recent losses along the coast remind us.
Charter boat operator and owner of New England Maritime Patrick Cassidy says an awareness of safety makes good sense.
“Safety is not just a theoretical thing,” he said. “it is something that can save lives.”
Who does the new certification apply to?
The new law applies to any operator of any motorized vessel: you’ll need the certification whether operating a tiny dingy with a tiny motor on a pond, sailing a sloop (with motors) across the bay, or operating a commercial boat.
What impact do the changes make?
This small change makes a big splash in a water-led economy like the one on Cape Cod, where pretty much everyone has some sort of boating interaction. Anyone who uses a boat with a motor for any purpose will need to take the course, take the test, and receive a certification card.
The reach of water-based occupations stretches far and wide. Beyond the obvious Cape Cod aquaculture, fishing and tourism sectors, people make a living on the water in a plethora or roles: working at town docks and landings, marinas and boatyards, as marine engine and marine construction, as researchers and educators, as charter captains, as commercial water transport and ferry operators. And, of course, visitors piloting their boat while on holiday also must comply with the new rule.
Is this type of certification common?
The Coast Guard has long put in place licensing structure for operating boats. This new Massachusetts regulation joins those of other New England states in requiring baseline safety training for everyone.
How often is it required?
The certification is reciprocal between states, so having a certification card from another state could cover the Massachusetts requirement, just as a card from Massachusetts will cover the requirement in another state.
In addition, it is a life-time certification. Those who have passed the test once will not need to re-take it. And, if people can’t find their older certification card, the website I Lost My Card can provide tools for requesting another copy.
What is the course required for certification?
The classroom-based course culminates in a state test. Many organizations offer the course, but at New England Maritime it is two days in person on site at their Dennis location. They also offer the course at other marinas or custom locations, or via zoom.
After passing the test, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts issues boaters a wallet card that serves as proof of official certification and requires that people carry the card in the boat.
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For more information:
- Commonwealth of MA boating law summary: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-boating-law-summary
