“I have an Alabama Boater Safety Certificate and a Georgia Driver’s License. As a resident of Georgia I’m told you can issue me an Alabama Boater Safety ID card since I do all my boating in Alabama. What documentation is required for this ID card?”

You’re in a good position to get an Alabama Boater Safety ID card, even as a Georgia resident, because Alabama honors NASBLA-approved boating certificates from other states. Since you have an Alabama Boater Safety Certificate, this should make the process smoother.

Here’s what you’ll generally need to obtain an Alabama Boater Safety ID card (which will often be an endorsement on an existing driver’s license or a “Vessel Only” license):

• Your Alabama Boater Safety Certificate: This is crucial as it proves you’ve completed the required education.
• Proof of Identity:
  • Georgia Driver’s License: This will serve as one form of identification, and likely a photo ID.
  • Social Security Card (Original): This is consistently listed as a required document.
  • Additional forms of identification: The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) generally requires two forms of identification, at least one with a photograph, or three non-photo forms. Your Georgia Driver’s License and Social Security card should cover this, but it’s always good to have another secondary document on hand (e.g., a credit card, current international driver’s license/permit, etc.) if needed.
• Proof of Age: While your Georgia Driver’s License should cover this, if you are under 19, you might also need proof of school enrollment or graduation.
• Fees: There will be a test or transfer fee (typically $5.00 cash) and an issuance fee for the license (typically $36.25). They usually accept credit cards (MasterCard, Visa, or Discover) but there might be a convenience fee.
• Appear in Person: You will need to go to an ALEA Driver License Exam Office in Alabama.

Important Considerations for Non-Residents:

• 45-Day Exemption: As a non-resident, you can operate a vessel on Alabama waters for up to 45 days per calendar year without an Alabama Boater Safety ID card if you possess a valid boater safety certification or vessel operator’s certification issued in your home state or country (which your Georgia Driver’s License with a boating endorsement or separate Georgia boating card would cover). However, since you boat there frequently, getting the Alabama ID card is a good idea.
• Endorsement or “Vessel Only” License: When you get your Alabama boater safety certification, it will typically appear as a “V” class placed on your Alabama driver’s license. Since you have a Georgia Driver’s License, you will likely be issued a “Vessel Only” license as proof of your certification.

Before you go, it’s highly recommended to:

• Contact the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Marine Patrol Division directly: Their contact information is usually available on their website (alea.gov). They can provide the most up-to-date and specific requirements for non-residents.
• Review the “Document Requirements And Fees” section on the ALEA website: This will give you a detailed list of acceptable primary and secondary documents.

By bringing your Alabama Boater Safety Certificate, Georgia Driver’s License, Social Security card, and being prepared for the fees, you should be well-equipped to obtain your Alabama Boater Safety ID card.