Do I need a license to operate a sailboat under 40 feet long?

Question

I want to rent/charter a 30-39 foot sailboat and eventually own one for myself. What licenses/certifications do I need?

Answer 1

If you plan on renting, again, depending on where you plan to rent, they may require one or even a harbour licence in some places that applies to all vessels operating within the confines of that harbour. At the very least, the outfit renting a boat that size, is going to ask that you demonstrate your ability to operate it, before you even leave the dock.

Your best bet is to take a course and have that completion certificate handy when you rent

Answer 2

Depends on where you're gonna sail it.  Some states require different things.  Alabama requires a boating license to drive a jet ski.  Fortunately the test is really easy.

You probably should check with local authorities.

Answer 3

You may in the waters you plan on sailing it from. Not all boating laws are the same from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. It can also depend on if this vessel is equipped with either an inboard engine in addition to sail or even a kicker outboard attached to the transom.

If you plan on renting, again, depending on where you plan to rent, they may require one or even a harbour licence in some places that applies to all vessels operating within the confines of that harbour. At the very least, the outfit renting a boat that size, is going to ask that you demonstrate your ability to operate it, before you even leave the dock.

Your best bet is to take a course and have that completion certificate handy when you rent.