As of 1/1/2020 in New York State starts requiring a boater safety certificate.

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As of January 1, 2020 in New York State, everyone operating a motorized vessel will need a safety certificate by 2025. This is a requirement of the new legislation known as "Brianna's Law:

1. If you were born on or after January 1, 1993, you will need the certificate by the first time you operate a vessel in 2020.
2. If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you will need the certificate by the first time you operate a vessel in 2022.
3. If you were born on or after January 1, 1983, you will need a certificate by the first time you operate a vessel in 2023.
4. If you were born on or after January 1, 1978, you will need a certificate by the first time you operate a vessel in 2024.
5. If you were born before 1978, you will need a certificate by the first time you operate a vessel in 2025.

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For visiting boaters, all states, territories, and provinces will recognize boating education cards that meet NASBLA requirements and Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Cards that meet Transport Canada's requirements. (This is known as "reciprocity.")