CULLMAN, Ala. – Lake season is coming, and, as a reminder, Alabama’s rules for out-of-state boaters changed in 2024. The change ended a longtime exemption that allowed some nonresidents to operate on Alabama waters without certification for up to 45 days.
According to information provided by Rep. Tim Wadsworth, R-Arley, that exemption ended Oct. 1, 2024. State records show the change came through HB375, enacted as Act 2024-394. The law amended Section 33-5-52 of the Code of Alabama and took effect the same day.
Under the updated law, nonresidents may operate a motorized vessel on Alabama waters only if they have a valid boater safety certification or vessel operator’s certification issued by their home state or country.
Those who do not must obtain a Nonresident Alabama Boater Safety Certification under the same terms and conditions as Alabama residents.
ALEA’s boating certification guidance reflects that same requirement and notes the change became effective Oct. 1, 2024.
The rule applies to operators of motorized vessels, including boats and personal watercraft such as jet skis.
Alabama still recognizes valid home-state certifications for nonresidents. However, the law makes clear that a nonresident cannot receive broader operating privileges in Alabama than an Alabama resident of the same age.
According to the information shared by Wadsworth, a nonresident whose home state does not require a boating license, or who does not already hold one, must obtain a Nonresident Alabama Boater Safety Certification before operating on Alabama waters.
ALEA stated that applicants must complete the same certification process used for Alabama residents. That includes an application and testing or proof of exemption.
Applicants must also pay a $5 application fee and a $36.25 issuance fee.
The law also keeps age restrictions in place for younger operators. ALEA says a person must be at least 12 years old to obtain a vessel operator’s license.
Operators who are 12 or 13 may operate only if a licensed person age 21 or older is on board. That person must have the required license in possession and be seated in a position to take immediate control of the vessel.
Operators 14 and older may operate without supervision after obtaining certification.
There is still an exception for some rental situations, but it is limited.
Under the law, a person renting from a properly licensed boat rental business or state-owned marina may be exempt if the rental contract shows the operator received safety instructions, all required documents are signed, a copy of the contract remains on board and the operator is at least 16 years old.
Wadsworth’s office also noted that vessel registration is separate from operator certification.
According to the information he provided, a boat legally registered in another state is generally recognized in Alabama for up to 90 consecutive days.
Legislative text tied to Alabama’s vessel-registration law states that vessels covered by a valid number issued under another state’s numbering system may operate on Alabama waters for 90 consecutive days without being licensed in Alabama.
If the vessel remains longer than 90 consecutive days, it must then be registered and licensed in Alabama like other vessels in the state.
For visitors heading to Alabama lakes and rivers, the takeaway is simple: the old 45-day grace period is gone.
Before operating a motorized vessel on Alabama waters, out-of-state boaters now need to make sure they have a recognized home-state certification or obtain an Alabama nonresident certification, unless they fall within one of the law’s limited exceptions.
What out-of-state boaters need to know
- The 45-day exemption ended Oct. 1, 2024.
- Nonresidents now generally need a valid home-state boating certification or a Nonresident Alabama Boater Safety Certification before operating a motorized vessel on Alabama waters.
- Operators must be at least 12. Those who are 12 or 13 must have a licensed adult age 21 or older on board and able to take immediate control.
- Rental operators may qualify for an exception only if the rental meets the law’s contract, instruction and age requirements.
- Boats registered in another state are generally recognized for up to 90 consecutive days before Alabama registration is required.
