Going boating? State now requires 'card'

SEATTLE -- If you're thinking of hitting the open water -- and you're over the age of 12 or under the age of 50 -- the state requires you have a Washington State Boater Education card.

There is a test involved -- you can read about it here -- and it will cost you, as well. The course fee is $29.50 and the required lifetime card is $10.50.

You can take the test online, which will take you about 4-6 hours to work your way through the online course.

The state has been phasing in the boating card requirements -- next year anyone 59 and younger who is boating will be required to have the card.