A number of boating safety class will be offered by the Coast Guard Auxiliary that can lead to issuance of the Washington state boater education card. State law requires operators of recreational boats (including sail boats, jet skis, and motorized skiffs) to have the card when using a boat with 15 or more horsepower.

To qualify for a card the operator must pass an examination. The one-day course and exam will be offered in Bellevue in April, May and June.

Currently, every operator age 35 and younger must have the card. The requirement is being phased in by age. Next year it is age 40. By year 2014 operators younger than age 60 will need it.

To qualify for a card, the operator must at least age 12 (14 if to operate a jet ski) and pass a written exam. There is only one exception: A Coast Guard mate or captain license is a substitute for the card. Regardless of age, however, the safety classes are recommended for all boaters, including passengers.

The first class in Bellevue will be from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 30 at Bellevue Fire Station #9, 12412 S.E. 69th Way.

Cost is $30 and the class is limited to 25 students. Those interested should contact Terrence Hooper at 425-885-0259 or by email at HoopCGAUX@gmail.com.

Another course will be offered from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 21, also at Bellevue Fire Station #9, 12412 S.E. 69th. Way.

Cost is $30 and the class is limited to 25 students. Those interested should contact Terrence Hooper at 425-885-0259 or by email at HoopCGAUX@gmail.com.

The final course will be offered from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 18, again at Bellevue Fire Station #9, 12412 S.E. 69th. Way.

Cost is $30 and the class is limited to 25 students. Those interested should contact Terrence Hooper at 425-885-0259 or by email at HoopCGAUX@gmail.com.