It is that sunny time of year to explore the local bays, take the friends to an island picnic or watch the sunsets from a different perspective. Yes, it is boating season. As many locals know you don't want to be out on the water without your Alabama Boating License but you may have hesitations about taking the exam at the DMV office. Well there are plenty of other options  that don't involve waiting in line or getting test fears.

In Alabama you must be at least 12 years of age to operate a motorized vessel on Alabama's waterways. You also must be licensed. A written examination is required for applicants, except those who were 40 or older on April 28, 1994, or those who have successfully completed boating courses given by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S. Power Squadron or the Alabama Marine Police "Boating Basics" course. 

• The US Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 3-10 and the City of Orange Beach are hosting a Safe Boating class on May 4th at the Orange Beach Fire Department, located at 25855 John M. Snook Drive. The day-long course, starts at 8am and will wrap up around 3:30pm.
• Tight on time? You can visit Boaterexam.com and get most of the work done online without leaving the house.
• Another online option is Boat-ed.com which was chose by the ALEA Marina Division.

NOTE: Boating course certificates or motorboat operator’s license must be presented to the license examiner at the time of making an application.

Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Alabama Driver License Division, Operator Certification Section, P.O. Box 301451, Montgomery, AL 36130. Course information can be obtained by calling (800) 272-7930.

For more online information visit the ALEA website HERE

Remeber, a great day on the water is a safe day on the water!