Ohio Boater's E​ducation Course

In the state of Ohio, if you were born after 1981, you are required by state law to  possess a boating license to operate a watercraft vessel greater than 10 horsepower. Barberton Parks and Recreation provides several NASBLA approved options throughout the year that meet education requirements covering basic practice, laws, navigation, and water sport safety. All courses are open to all ages, and are held at our Parks Offices located at 500 W. Hopocan Ave., Barberton, OH, 44203. Options are as follows:

In Home Study

This option allows for you to have materials sent directly to your home to study and review on your own time. Simply complete the 100 question multiple choice exam at home, and bring your completed paperwork to our office during our regular hours of operation to be verified and submitted by a certified instructor. No registration needed. There is no fee for this option. 
Office Hours:
Monday- 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday- 8:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.
Wednesday- 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Thursday-8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Friday-8:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.

Modified Class and Exam

Receive course materials at home and study on your own time. Then, join us during one of our scheduled dates to quickly review materials, answer any questions you may have, and complete the test with a certified instructor. The first hour of the schedule time will begin review, the second hour will start the test. Registration required. $5 course fee
2022 dates TBA:

​Traditional Classroom

The traditional classroom style is a complete course held on Saturdays, taught by a certified OBEC Instructor. The course covers all materials within one session, and participants take the 60 question multiple choice test the same day. All classes run 8 a.m. until approximately 3 p.m. Pizza and chips are provided. Registration must be done in advance. Please call 330-861-7135, or register online here. 

Fees: $10 for 18 and above, no fee for ages 17 and under.
Ages: All ages welcome
Time: 8 a.m.- 3 p.m.
Location: Parks Offices located at 500 West Hopocan Ave. Barberton, OH 44203
Dates for 2022:   Dates TBA

Funded through a grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Watercraft Division