Does A Canoe Need A License In Ohio?

Ohio’s boater education law, effective since 2000, requires boaters born on or after January 1, 1982, to successfully complete either a boating course or a proficiency exam. This requirement applies to all watercraft, regardless of size, and includes powerboats, sailboats, canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, and inflatable boats. Kiteboards, paddleboards, and belly boats (or float tubes) do not have to be registered as boats in Ohio.

In Ohio, registrations are required for every recreational boat, including powerboats, sailboats, canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, rowboats, racing shells, rowing sculls, and inflated boats. Kiteboards, paddleboards, and belly boats (or float tubes) do not have to be registered as boats in Ohio.

In Ohio, no person shall operate any watercraft without a boating license. However, many boaters are required to obtain and carry proof of boater’s license. Ohio is one of only seven states that currently require canoe and kayak owners to register or pay special taxes on their boats.

The BoatUS Foundations Online Course is the only FREE Online Boating Safety Course approved by the Ohio Division of Parks Watercraft. If your home state does not require a boating license, you do not need to register your boat in Ohio.

In summary, Ohio’s boater education law mandates that all watercraft must be registered with the state, including canoes, kayaks, and other non-motorized vessels. While Ohio boaters are not required to obtain an additional boating license, many are required to obtain and carry proof of boater’s license.