Before your time on the water begins, please review current Tennessee boating safety requirements. In Tennessee, boaters must slow to no-wake speed within 100 feet of a law enforcement vessel displaying flashing blue lights. In addition, Tennessee residents born after Jan. 1, 1989, who operate a vessel with more than 8.5 horsepower must have a TWRA Boating Safety Certification of Completion. Non-Tennessee residents born after Jan. 1, 1989, who operate a boat with more than 8.5 horsepower in Tennessee must have a NASBLA-approved boating education certificate.
Tennessee residents must purchase a Boating Safety Exam Permit before taking the TWRA exam, and TWRA says the permit can be purchased through GoOutdoorsTennessee. After purchasing the permit, boaters may take the exam online or choose an instructor-led class. TWRA also provides an online study guide to help guests prepare before arrival.
If you are planning to rent a boat or other motorized watercraft, it is a good idea to complete any required boating education in advance so your trip gets off to a smooth start. Please review the current requirements before your visit, especially if you were born after Jan. 1, 1989.