Rhode Island Boat Course Information
This article provides course information for Rhode Island boaters, including who needs to take the course, course cost, registration requirements, expiration, and what happens after completion.
Who needs to take this course?
Rhode Island law requires anyone operating a personal watercraft, or anyone born on or after January 1, 1986 operating a motorized vessel over 10 horsepower, to pass a boater safety course and carry a boater education card.
Available courses
Rhode Island courses are available through the following options:
- Boat-Ed
- Ilearntoboat
Course information
| Course Information | Boat-Ed | Ilearntoboat |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $29.95 | $44.95 |
| Language(s) | English | English |
| Chapters/Units | 6 Units | Interactive |
| Format/Time | Online, 3-hour minimum | Interactive, 3 hours |
| Expiration | 90 days | 90 days |
| Extension(s) | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Renew | Yes | No |
| Quizzes/Final Exam | Quizzes: 10 questions, 80% to pass, unlimited attempts. In-person Challenge Exam required. | In-person Challenge Exam required. |
| Age Restrictions | No | No |
| Residency Requirement | No | No |
| Registration Requirement(s) | Challenge Exam acknowledgment and gender | Challenge Exam acknowledgment and gender |
| Post Course | Print Challenge Exam voucher immediately. | Print Challenge Exam voucher immediately. |
| Replacement Card | Handled by the state | Handled by the state |
Registration requirements
Students taking the Rhode Island course may be required to provide:
- Challenge Exam acknowledgment
- Gender
Course expiration and extensions
Rhode Island courses expire after 90 days.
Extensions are available for the following course options:
- Boat-Ed
- Ilearntoboat
Quizzes and final exam
Exam requirements may vary by course option.
Boat-Ed: Quizzes include 10 questions. Students must score 80% or higher to pass. Students have unlimited attempts. Students must also complete the in-person Challenge Exam.
Ilearntoboat: Students must complete the in-person Challenge Exam.
In-person Challenge Exam
After completing the online course, students must attend the in-person Challenge Exam to complete their boating safety certification.
The practice exam at the end of the course helps students prepare for the Challenge Exam.
Students can locate a Challenge Exam here:
https://dem.ri.gov/programs/law/boating-exams.php
After completing the course
After completing the online course, students can immediately print their in-person Challenge Exam voucher.
Students should use the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management website to book their exam:
https://dem.ri.gov/programs/law/boating-exams.php
After all requirements are completed, the permanent card is sent by the state. The card typically arrives in 7-10 days.
Replacement cards
Replacement cards are handled by the state of Rhode Island.
Students can contact the state or complete the replacement request form: