What is the Certified Boater Program?

• The Certified Boater program was created to ease the inspection process for boat owners and decrease the volume of boats at decontamination stations at Canyon Ferry and Tiber Reservoirs. It allows watercraft inspectors to focus on boats traveling between many different waterbodies. 
• A Certified Boater can depart from the reservoir without going through a full inspection and hot wash if their next boating trip is on this reservoir. 
• A Certified Boater can access all OPEN boat ramps within their designated reservoir.
• Boaters must register each year to be in the Certified Boater Program.
• You can complete the certification process online. You must read the tutorial, pass the test, complete a registration form, and sign a contract agreeing to abide by the Certified Boater rules.  Remember, you'll need your vessel and trailer licenses numbers and description of all vessels to complete certification. 
  • Your Certified Boater decals will be mailed to you within 5-working days.  If you want to complete the certification in person, you will need to travel to an FWP regional office to complete the certification process and receive your decals. Remember to bring your vessel and trailer licenses numbers and description of all vessels.

Certified Boater Access Sites on Tiber and Canyon Ferry 

Most boat ramps located around Tiber and Canyon Ferry Reservoirs are open to “certified boaters.” The maps below indicate the current status of each boat ramp on these waterbodies. 

• Map: Canyon Ferry Reservoir Access Sites 
• Map: Tiber Reservoir Access Sites 

Completing the Certified Boater Program

To be certified, you need to:

1. Choose either Canyon Ferry or Tiber as your designated area. You cannot be certified for both.
2. Take the online test. A passing score (80%) will allow you to register your watercraft(s).
   1. NOTE: Internet Explorer is not supported for the certification. Please use another browser.
3. Register your watercraft(s) online.
4. You will receive your decals in the mail within 5 working days.

Take the Test In Person

Beginning April 1, 2019 you can take the test in person by visiting your local FWP regional office.

Contact Us

For general questions about the Certified Boater Program, please call (406) 444-2440 or contact your local FWP regional office.