I believe this is the last year that we bass bugs can go without the new Washington Boater Safety Card. Sarge might know more on this but I took the practice test the other day and passed. It looks as though you either have to take the class or can do online next spring.

What are your thoughts?
Russ

Here is a link with more information in case you haven't already seen it:

http://www.parks.wa.gov/boatersafety.asp

I haven't seen the practice test, but I have heard from others and they say the same thing as you, Russ. It's not too hard. Ask Terry S., I think he knows a thing or two about boater safety classes... HAHAHA!

Luckily, I was required to take a Dept. of Interior boating class as part of using UW's equipment, so I am good to go once I fill out a one page application!

Chris

Alcihol, now that question might have to be studied a little bit more by some of our members in order to pass.
Russ

Looks like you are already drinkin Smitty    Have fun buddy.

Anybody notice this part of the law? I think I can probably pass by my required date in 2013!

"Like the Oregon law, the Washington law will have a phased-in period for compliance. By January 1, 2008, boaters 20 years of age and younger will be required to obtain their Boater Education Card. Then by January 1, 2009, it will be boaters 25 years of age or younger will be required to obtain their Boater Education Card. The phased-in period for compliance will continue until 2016 for various age groups. Boaters born before January 1, 1955 will be exempt from having to obtain a Boater Education Card."

( http://www.parks.wa.gov/boatersafety.asp )

"When will I need to have a card?

Here is how the program will be phased in:

January 1, 2008 - All boat operators twenty years old and younger;
January 1, 2009 - All boat operators twenty-five years old and younger;
January 1, 2010 - All boat operators thirty years old and younger;
January 1, 2011 - All boat operators thirty-five years old and younger;
January 1, 2012 - All boat operators forty years old and younger;
January 1, 2013 - All boat operators fifty years old and younger;
January 1, 2014 - All boat operators sixty years old and younger;
January 1, 2015 - All boat operators seventy years old and younger;
January 1, 2016 - All boat operators over 12 years will be required to have a card.
Persons born before January 1, 1955 are exempt.

State Parks is planning to start making cards available in the spring of 2006 for persons who have already taken courses approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and State Parks."

( http://www.parks.wa.gov/boatsafefaq.asp )


Stu

Stu,

That part of the requirements I never found on the site I was on. I guess then that I don't have to worry either about it until 2013. Hurray!!!
Russ

wow i just got a letter from washington state parks and recreation commision saying that even though i had already passed the test before i must pay $10 for a state park  issued boater card (even thought i already have one!).  what a bunch of garbage.