Boat Safety

Boat Safety Resources

• A new Massachusetts law going into effect on April 1, 2026, requires a mandatory boater education program for all motorized vessel operators.

  • The Hanson-Milone Boater Safety Act was signed into law by Governor Healey on January 8. The bill requires all boat operators to obtain a boater safety certificate. The effort was created to improve safety by providing boaters with the necessary education when navigating state waterways. The Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) is working to raise awareness and provide resources to help boaters prepare for the changes.

• Massachusetts Boating Law Summary

• Personal Watercraft Safety Law Summary

• Navigation Rules

• Life Jackets

• Water Safety

• Mass Boating Safety Course Online

• Massachusetts Boater Study Guide