Oregonians planning to boat on the lakes and rivers in 2020 will need to consider several new laws passed in the spring by the state legislature and that took effect Wednesday.

The most significant change requires boat owners operating a motorboat over 10 horsepower to take a boat safety course and carry a boating safety education card. Although the law was in place before, the 60-day grace period has been eliminated. You must have the card when you get behind the wheel.

The course and card are similar to getting a driver’s license from the DMV. You cannot legally operate the boat without one. Out-of-state boating safety education cards are accepted in Oregon. Boat operators from states without the safety cards, will need an Oregon boater safety card.