5.9Boating Safety Courses/Boating Safety Certificates

“In order to protect the public interest in the prudent and equitable use of the waters of this state and to enhance the enjoyment of pleasure boating and other recreational water sports on the waters of this state, the [DNR] shall establish and pursue comprehensive educational programs designed to advance boating safety.” MCL 324.80211(1).

“The [DNR] shall put into effect a program to train boat operators and shall issue a boating safety certificate to those who satisfactorily complete the program.” MCL 324.80211(2). “For the purpose of giving the courses of instruction and awarding boating safety certificates, the [DNR] may designate as its agent any person it considers qualified to act in this capacity.” Id. “The [DNR] or its agent may offer a video or home study boating safety course.” Id. “A charge shall not be made for any instruction given or for the award of boating safety certificates by any of the following:

(a) The [DNR] or another state agency.

(b) A law enforcement agency of [Michigan] or of a political subdivision of [Michigan].” Id.

“The [DNR] shall issue a boating safety certificate to each individual who successfully completes a boating safety course as described in [MCL 324.80211] and passes an examination prescribed by the [DNR].” MCL 324.80212(1). See also MCL 324.80212(3).

“A boating safety certificate issued under [MCL 324.80212] is valid, unless revoked, for the life of the person who earned the certificate.” MCL 324.80212(3).

“The director may by written authorization modify or suspend the boating safety certificate requirements under [MCL 324.80201 et seq.,] if the modification or suspension of those certificate requirements is for individuals engaged in a marine event authorized by the director or for which the director receives a copy of a United States coast guard authorization.” MCL 324.80214.

See https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-350-79119_79144_79642---,00.html for more information on boating safety courses.

Part B—Nonmoving Violations in the Personal Watercraft Act