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Official Website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

    The .gov means its official.

    Local, state, and federal government websites often end in .gov. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania government websites and email systems use "pennsylvania.gov" or "pa.gov" at the end of the address. Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you're on an official state website. 

    Boating

    With the thousands of miles of waters to motor, paddle and float, you'll find endless opportunities to enjoy and explore aboard your boat. Whether your boat is motor or human-powered, find the information you need to become "commander of your vessel" with many options for boating safety courses, about what you need to get your craft on the water and where to go.  

    graphic showing where the registration sticker and numbers are placed on a boat

    Register/Title a Boat

    Boats are required to be registered in the state where they are primarily used and are valid for up to two years.

    Register/Title a Boat
    Close-up of the front of a kayak with a life jacket and a cell phone in a dry bag about to launch into a stream.

    Boating Basics

    Prep for your next boating adventure and learn the basics required to have a fun and safe trip on the water. 

    Boating Basics
    Three friends wearing life jackets are laughing and having fun while kayaking along a stream in Central Pennsylvania.

    Paddlesports

    Paddlesports
    Family of four, all wearing life jackets, ride in a powerboat along the Susquehanna River

    Boating Regulations

    Find the rules and regulations for all the ways boaters enjoy Pennsylvania's waters.

    Boating Regulations
    Various types of life jackets laid out on grass: Throwable, powerboating life jacket, standard life jacket, youth life jacket and two inflatable life jackets

    Boating Safety

    Knowing the water and what to expect on the water, and having and using the right equipment is the best start for success on the water. ​​

    Boating Safety
    Close-up of a Boating Safety Education Certificate Card from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission

    Apply for a Boating Safety Education Certificate and Course

    Apply for a Boating Safety Education Certificate and Course
    Scenic shot of people where life jackets paddling canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and sailing on Lake Nockamixon.

    Where to Boat

    Take your next adventure on the water! Pennsylvania offers thousands of miles of waters to motor, paddle and float.

    Where to Boat