The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Marine Patrol Division has announced its 2026 schedule for Boating Basics and License Courses, offering Alabama residents an opportunity to receive boating education and vessel licensing at locations statewide.

According to ALEA, the free in-person courses allow participants to interact directly with Marine Patrol troopers and receive hands-on instruction tailored to local waterways. The agency said the classes also provide important safety information specific to bodies of water frequently used by area residents.

Individuals who complete the Boating Basics course will receive a certificate by mail once troopers submit their information to ALEA’s Vessel Registration Unit. The agency said its Driver License Division will then add the vessel class designation to the participant’s Alabama driver license.

ALEA noted that it may take up to 10 business days before participants can purchase their updated license online through the agency’s driver license portal or at their local county probate office.

Children age 12 and older are eligible to obtain a vessel operator’s license, although they cannot operate a vessel independently until age 14.

The agency has made the full course schedule available online and encourages residents interested in enrolling to contact the Marine Patrol instructor listed for each course location.

ALEA said a one-time $5 application fee is required, along with a $36.25 issuance fee for the vessel operator license.