Marine Patrol
Mandatory Boater Education Exams
and Pre-Season Boat Inspection Opportunity
Oregon law requires Oregon residents 16 years of age and older who operate powered boats of more than 10 hp to obtain their Mandatory Boater Education card. Failure to have a card under the above conditions might result in a $142 fine. This card is not a license to operate a boat, as there is no such requirement in Oregon. Once a boater receives their card, it never has to be renewed. There is a one-time $20 fee to receive your card, and duplicate cards are available for $16 each. Y
Boat operators can also access the testing materials and take the test online through the Oregon State Marine Board website, but there is generally a fee for the test and for receiving a certificate. Exam participants will be shown an informational video prior to the proctored examination and will have an opportunity to ask questions. Additional exam preparation material can be found on the Oregon State Marine Board website under “Study Guide”. A 75-question multiple-choice test will be given; a minimum score of 70% is needed to pass. The tests are graded upon completion; necessary paperwork and information on how to receive their card from the Oregon State Marine Board will be given.
Each year, from mid-April through October, thousands of motorized and non-motorized boaters recreate on these waters. Activities include fishing, camping, water skiing, waterfowl hunting, sailing, swimming, and wakeboarding.
Seasonal Marine Deputies patrol the lakes and rivers of Deschutes County in partnership with the Oregon State Marine Board, ensuring boaters operate safely and legally. A Marine Deputy may contact you and conduct a safety inspection of your boat to ensure you have the required equipment for your particular type of craft.
When not patrolling, these deputies respond to calls for service, including disputes, boat accidents, drownings, and public assists. They also conduct public education classes in boating and water safety in area schools. Support is provided through an annual contract with the Oregon State Marine Board. The contract supplies funding for personnel and patrol boats used in the local program.
Free Boat Safety Inspections
The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office will also provide an opportunity for boaters to have their boats inspected at three locations in Deschutes County. DCSO Marine Deputies and Volunteers will be present to conduct the inspections.
Date:
Saturday, April 18th, 9 am – 2 pm
Location:
Main Office Parking Lot, 63333 W Hwy 20, Bend, OR 97703
La Pine County Services Center, 51340 Hwy 97, La Pine, OR 97739
Details:
DCSO Marine Deputies will conduct voluntary safety inspections, answer boating questions, and help ensure your vessel meets state and federal requirements. Passing boats receive an inspection sticker; if adjustments are needed, deputies will provide guidance to help you get into compliance.
You can bring your boat to us, or we’ll try to schedule an appointment at your residence, if possible. Call (54) 388-6501 to make an appointment with our Marine Program Coordinator.