PROVIDENCE - The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is offering a free Boating Safety Challenge Exam at the Providence Boat Show – which kicks off today at the Rhode Island Convention Center and runs through Sunday. The Exam, administered by the DEM Division of Law Enforcement, will be held tomorrow between 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
The Challenge Exam takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. People should arrive no later than 12:30 p.m. for the test and bring photo identification. Children under the driving age (who do not have photo identification) must have a legal guardian present. Pre-registration is not required. Results will be sent via postal mail following the exam. Individuals who are taking the Exam for certification should complete the online study course and review the Handbook of Rhode Island Laws and Responsibilities in advance of the test. Study packets are also available by calling the DEM Division of Law Enforcement at (401) 222-3070.
Information on boating safety and laws, registration and renewals, boater education courses, and related topics will be offered at the DEM booth throughout the Show (Booth #17). Boater education courses are mandatory for all boaters born after January 1, 1986 who operate a boat with a motor greater than 10 horsepower, and for all operators, regardless of age, of personal watercraft.
There are nearly 40,000 registered boats in Rhode Island. Forms for registering and titling new boats will be available at the DEM booth. Registration renewals, by check only, will be accepted at the booth via secure drop box; these renewals will be processed on Monday, February 6. Visit DEM online for more information on boating in Rhode Island.
For more information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.
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