It’s essentially the same thing—proof of completion of an approved boater education course. Alabama is technically the only state which requires boat operators to obtain a special endorsement on their vehicle driver’s license showing that they have completed the required safe boating training. In all other states, the proof that a boater has taken and passed an approved boating course is a card or certificate issued by or on behalf of the state agency responsible for boating safety. It varies by state. Most boaters don’t know the exact name of the official proof of boating safety certification for their state, so they commonly refer to this certification as their boating license, boater’s license or boat license. How can I get my boating license or card? Study your state’s safe boating course for free and take the boat safety exam online. Once you pass, you’ll either print out your temporary boater safety certificate (sometimes referred to as a boating license), or your permanent boate