HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Marine Patrol Division announced upcoming available dates for prospective boaters to enroll in the Boating Basics and License Course that will be taught by Troopers within ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division. This course will allow citizens of Alabama to obtain a Boating Basics course certificate that may then be taken to their local Driver License Division Office to have the boater endorsement added to their driver’s license.
Children 12 years old or older are eligible for a vessel operator's license, however, they will not be able to operate alone until the age of 14. Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety Colonel Jimmy Helms said, “This course is an excellent opportunity for citizens to interact with their local Troopers while receiving hands-on education. It is our goal to ensure we are providing up-to-date information and scenarios that fully prepare all boaters for a safe and enjoyable season on the water.”
Corporal Robert Ping from ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division stated, “There is no better boater safety program, than the courses taught by Marine Patrol Troopers. Our classes allow students to interact directly with the instructor and are developed to address the issues Alabama boaters face on their local bodies of water. With summer boating season fast approaching, now is the time to get licensed so that you may safely enjoy the beautiful Alabama waterways.”
For more information, or to enroll in a class, please see the schedule attached and contact the Marine Patrol instructor via the email provided. Class sizes will be limited to allow for Covid-19 protocols to be followed. A one-time application fee of $5 cash will be charged. There will be a $36.25 issuance fee for the license.