Member Squadrons of the USPS offer boating safety courses for the public throughout the year. Since the organization of the USPS in 1914, more than 3,000,000 boaters have completed safe boating courses taught by Squadrons of the USPS. These courses are open to all members of the public, boat owners or not, sailboaters or powerboaters or personal watercraft operators, and people of all ages. Courses are meant to be of interest to the entire family, and for younger boaters, there is a Children's Safety Class geared specifically for them.

Both the Boating Course and BoatSmart are part of the Public Boating Program. BoatSmart is similar to the boating course but does not cover an introduction to piloting and chart reading.

This course meets the educational standards of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and includes a proctored examination as required by many states and insurance companies. Instruction is free but there is a nominal charge for course material.  Successful completion of this course also entitles the student to membership in any Squadron within the USPS.

Subject matter which is covered during this course includes the following:

Additional requirements specific to Washington State are also covered and a few additional questions specific to Washington State are included in the exam.

This course is a good source of general information for the recreational boater.  Students are encouraged to use BoatSmart as an introduction to boating and, especially if they plan on doing any offshore cruising, continue their learning by taking more advanced classes which are available to all who choose to become members of a Squadron of the USPS. See the Courses link at left for more information.

A home study course, "AMERICA'S BOATING COURSE" is now available for $34.95 plus shipping and handling.

If you need more information or would like to pre-register please see our Contacts page.

For an upcoming class near you, see the Class Schedule.