Boating License Tips Wisconsin

Getting a Boating License in Wisconsin

Tips for getting a boating license in WI

Living in Wisconsin has hundreds of up-sides, but perhaps the best one is the beautiful bounty of nature that we get to experience. From the numerous state parks filled with an ever stretching length of forest to the picturesque lakes where we can boat and fish the day away, the Dairy State has some of the best nature to explore in the world. However, to traverse the many waterways of Wisconsin safely, it is important to remember to acquire and maintain a boating license. This process can be a tad confusing to both newcomers and veterans of Wisconsin’s water, but with a little help the process can be painless. Read our tips for getting a boating license in WI.

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The first thing to discuss when talking about boating licenses in Wisconsin is the fact that if you were born before January 1st 1988, you do not need a license to operate a boat on any of Wisconsin’s waterways. Unfortunately for the Generations X and Y boaters out there, you will have to go through the process of taking both a safety course and registering. The easiest way to do both of those things is to peruse the internet and find any of the recognized boating associations that run DNR sanctioned programs for boat safety programs. These will take you through all of the state mandated information, as well as getting you ready to safely operate a boat in Wisconsin. This course will culminate in all of the paper work being done and your new license being sent right to your home. Easy peasy right?

“Born Before 1988? You don’t need one!”

If doing the course in your home does not sound like your preferred option, you may also contact the DNR and find when they are offering physical classes. These typically occur in the spring months so new boaters may enjoy the summer on the water, but classes also happen throughout the year. After completing this one day course, you are fully registered to boat to your heart’s content knowing.

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Whichever method you choose, you really cannot go wrong boating in Wisconsin. Whether you prefer a relaxing evening of fishing on Lake Winnebago or taking a pontoon boat down the Wolf River with friends, being on the water in Wisconsin is just about as good as it gets.

 Boating license information WI