1. Is this site secure?
2. What is Clear Learning’s Test Pilot?
3. Why do I need to take a PWC Safety course?
4. Why should I take a PWC Safety course online?
5. Is an online PWC course for me?
6. How do I use this site?
7. How much time does it take?
8. How many questions are on the exam?
9. What's a passing grade?
10. If I fail the quiz how long must I wait before I can retake it?
11. How much is the cost for the PWC Safety School course?
12. What computer skills do you need?
13. What technology do I need?
14. What is PWC Safety School?
15. Are There Allowances and capabilities to address persons with disabilities?

Is this site secure?top

Yes. PWC Safety School uses Clear Learning’s Test Pilot software platform commonly used for on-line or distance learning. Test Pilot is a unique educational tool designed to allow educators to create a variety of tests intended for use on the Internet Tests can provide immediate feedback for each question or be marked and sent via e-mail (we have chosen the latter).

The test usually (a few states have different requirements) consists of 50 general boating questions and 10 state specific questions randomly selected for each test. There is a total database of over 110 general boating questions and a minimum of 15 specific questions for each state. A test taker either re-taking the test or trying to copy it would be faced with a different exam. These steps insure that no one is able to copy the test, send it and the correct answers to a third party.

Please note: Some states do not recognize PWCSafetySchool.com as an approved boating course. Please check your state's requirement on their "welcome page" for additional information. A state’s "welcome page" is the one with boating contact information.

The PWCSafetySchool software sources the IP address when the person begins the test and then the IP address of the person when they reach/submit the "pass the test" form. The process provides two addresses to perform a match to. This eliminates the possibility of one person taking the test for others.

What is Clear Learning’s Test Pilot?top

Test Pilot is a unique educational tool designed to allow educators to create a variety of tests intended for use on the Internet. Developed at Purdue University the Test Pilot feature set has been designed to meet the real needs of e-learning professionals in a wide variety of environments. Tests can provide immediate feedback for each question or be marked and sent via e-mail.

Test is compatible with Netscape3+ or Internet Explorer 3+. No add-ins or plug-ins are required.

Why do I need to take a PWC Safety course?top

Many states require boaters to take a certified safety course.
Operators must carry the certification with them when they use motorized Watercraft.

Why should I take a PWC Safety course online?top

The online course gives boaters an opportunity to work at their own pace and on their own time, without having to go to a classroom.

Is an online course for me?top

If you are the type of person who likes to work at your own pace and in your own timeframe, the PWC Safety School is a good option for you. It is great for people with busy work schedules or family responsibilities, because you decide when and where you do your coursework. Distance learning is not for everyone. It requires self-motivation and self-discipline.

How do I use this site?top

It's very simple! Read the safety handbook (very much like a DMV handbook) and take the test. The handbook may be read at our site.

How much time does it take?top

Students taking the PWC Safety School course report spending 8 to 10 hours studying before taking the test.

How many questions are on the exam?top

Each state exam contains fifty (50) general PWC questions and ten (10) state oriented questions. (A few states have different requirements which PWCSafetySchool.com addresses). The state questions insure boaters understand their state's specific boating laws.

What's a passing grade?top

A person must get 85% questions correct to pass. Answer 51 out of a possible 60 questions correctly.

If I fail the quiz how long must I wait before I can retake it?top

There is no waiting period. You can review the materials and take the test again.

How much is the cost for the PWC Safety School course?top

Due to the reduction in our funding, there is now a $15.00 Administration fee for test passers only.

What computer skills do you need?top

Before you take the course, you should posses basic computer skills: email and Internet use.

What technology do I need?top

486 or higher PC or Mac equivalent computer
Windows 3.1, 95, 98, 2000, XP or Mac OS 7.5 or higher and email capability.
Connection to the Internet with a 14.4 modem or higher
Netscape or Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.0 or higher
Any type of word processing software (Microsoft Word, Corel WordPerfect, Claris Works, etc.)

What is PWC Safety School?top

PWCSafetySchool.com is a cooperative effort of the Northwest Personal Watercraft Safety Project, United States Power Squadrons, Personal Watercraft Industry Association, Coalition for Safe and Responsible Boating and the American Watercraft Association. It has an online certification option for states and local governments to help promote safe and responsible use of watercraft on our increasingly crowded waterways. We encourage your suggestions and comments about PWCSafetySchool.com.

Are There Allowances and capabilities to address persons with disabilities? top

Accessibility issues for those with disabilities would be addressed by the person in their own home. In other words, if they possessed the mechanical ability to operate a keyboard, either with or without an aid, they would be able to take the course. Also, a person who is hearing impaired could acquire all the necessary information by reading the content. The audio used in the course enhances the printed information but it not vital for an understanding of boating laws/regulations.

Wendy DeLaunay - Site Manager
Don Schmitz - Marine Law Consultant
Contact: (206) 682-3699