Education is the key to becoming a better, more knowledgeable boater. Learning the basics of boat operation and safety is best done before your first trip to the marina or launch ramp. In most states, boaters need to take a basic boating safety or education course to get a boating license. But these courses (often given by Boat-Ed or BoaterExam), which are usually offered online, are just that – basic. If you’re new to boating you’ll almost certainly want to go above and beyond this minimal requirement so you’ll feel comfortable and confident in your boat handling skills.