Anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 who wishes to operate certain vessels on the public waterways of Texas. See Water Safety Act for details. Boating courses are taught by US Coast Guard Auxiliary, US Power Squadron and trained volunteer instructors, as well as teachers, and game wardens. With more and more people enjoying the lakes and rivers every year, it's important, for everyone, that boaters educate themselves on boating skills and seamanship. All classes are a minimum of six hours.   Texas Parks and Wildlife Boater Education Course covers 6 units:

1. Before getting underway
   • Parts of the boat, types of hulls, engines and drives, boat capacity and fueling
2. Getting out on the water
   • casting off and docking, navigation rules and lights
3. Navigation and Safe operation
   • S. Aids to navigation, anchoring, engine cut off switch and personal watercraft.
4. Texas legal requirement for boating
   • Boating laws, unlawful operation, boating under the influence, environment
5. Boating emergencies
   • Responding to an emergency, reporting emergencies, risk management and weather.
6. Enjoying watersports
   • Responsible boat operator, small boats, scuba, fishing and hunting

The Boat Texas Study guide will prepare you for the course: Study Guide | Texas Boat Ed Course (boat-ed.com) At the end of the course students must pass a 60-question exam with a passing score of 80.   Cost per student will be $11.00. $11 cash for TPWD Certification TPWD Certification (required for anyone born after 9/1/93)