Boating safety classes
are conducted by several organizations throughout the State
of California. The largest of these organizations are the United States Coast Guard
Auxiliary and the United States Power Squadrons. The primary mission of both
organizations is to promote safety afloat through education, and you need not be a
member to take advantage of the basic instruction offered.
Introductory classes include basic information on aids to navigation, rules of the
road, charts and compasses, boating regulations, marlinespike seamanship, motor-
boat handling and trailering practices. Some Auxiliary Flotillas also offer public
courses on principles of sailing and coastal piloting. Please contact the organizations
for information.
A 24-hour, toll-free information service is available to California boaters.
The service is designed to provide boaters with up-to-date information on boating
classes offered throughout the state. This includes classes given by the U.S. Power
Squadrons, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and other local organizations such as
the American Red Cross. Callers can also request information on required and
recommended equipment, nautical rules of the road, local safety and facilities on
both coastal and inland waters.
Aquatic centers
across the state also offer boating safety classes. Courses, costs and
schedules vary. A list of aquatic centers can be found on the Division of Boating and
Waterways’ website.
For further information, contact:
Continue Your Boating
Safety Education
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
www.cgaux.orgNorthern California:
510-437-3590
Southern California:
310-521-6172
California Natural Resources Agency
California State Parks
DIVISION OF BOATING ANDWATERWAYS
1-888-326-2822
www.dbw.parks.ca.gov www.boatsmarter.comU.S. Power Squadrons
National Directory:
1-888-367-8777
www.usps.org www.BoatCalifornia.com