Boater Safety Certificate Requirements for Massachusetts

Use the Boater Safety Certificate Submission Form link below to upload your certification.

Read below to learn more about Massachusetts Boater Safety Certificate Requirements.

New Boater Safety regulations took effect on April 1, 2026 in Massachusetts.

The law, commonly known as the Hanson-Milone Act, requires:

• Mandatory Boater Safety education for all motorboat operators.

  • The original valid Boater Safety Certificate must be on board and available for inspection.

• Requires the engine cutoff lanyard (Kill Switch) be attached to the operator during use.

• Updates to required equipment.

Many volunteers may already have Boater Safety Certification. If needed, classes are offered online and in person. Many in-person courses are free, online classes require a fee.  See links below for more information.

Implementation:

• April 1, 2026 Law takes effect.

• Sept. 1, 2026 Fines for violations can be issued (no fines prior to 9/1/2026)

• April 1, 2028 Training extension deadline for persons born on or before January 1, 1989

Exemptions and requirements for Massachusetts and Out-of State Residents

• Training completed prior to April 1, 2026 will be considered valid with proof.

• Non-residents of Massachusetts may show proof of completing Boater Safety Training in a different state or province.

• Residents of Massachusetts must have a Massachusetts Boater Safety Certificate but exemptions are granted for new residents.

• Other exemptions exist for date of birth (see Implementation above) commercial fishermen, U.S.C.G. licenses, law enforcement, and emergency situations.  See the links below for more details.

Boater Safety Certificates and the Head of the Charles

• Volunteers must document Boater Safety Certificates prior to being assigned to a volunteer shift.

• Volunteers must also have their original  certificate available for inspection at the Regatta per regulations (even if you have already submitted a copy to the Launch Committee). 

• Note: USRowing coaching certificates do not qualify as a Boater Safety Certificate.

• Use the link below to document and submit a copy of your Boater Safety training.