What is required to operate a boat in Ohio?

Ohio law requires boaters born on or after January 1, 1982, to successfully complete either a boating course or a proficiency exam in order to operate a boat powered by more than 10 horsepower. (Ohio Revised Code 1547.05-1547.052; effective 1/1/2000)

The boating course must be approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators; and the proficiency exam must be approved by the ODNR Division of Watercraft.