HB375 Summary

• Requires all persons operating motorized vessels on Alabama waters to obtain boater safety certification before operation, with exceptions for non-motorized sailboats, rowboats, and canoes.

• Establishes the Nonresident Alabama Boater Safety Certification and requires nonresidents to obtain valid boater safety certification from their home state or country, or obtain Alabama certification by examination, with the same privileges as Alabama resident certificate holders.

• Provides exemptions for: Alabama residents with 30-day grace period after vessel purchase if registered and bill of sale is in possession; test drivers accompanied by licensed vessel dealers; persons engaged in valid commercial activities; and those renting registered vessels from licensed businesses or state-owned marinas meeting specified conditions.

• Allows nonresidents from states or countries without boater safety requirements to operate for up to 45 cumulative days per calendar year without certification.

• Becomes effective October 1, 2024, and defines violation of boater safety certification requirements as a boating violation.