A nationwide requirement for mandatory boater education in Canada could affect U.S. boaters who travel up north. The law, which went into effect on the 15th of September, requires anyone who operates a motorized recreational boat in Canadian waters to pass an approved boating safety education course and carry evidence of that when afloat.

However, according to the company that is administering the exams for the agency in charge, Transport Canada, United States citizens on U.S. registered boats who do not stay more than 45 days in Canada need not comply. But according to Transport Canada's website, U.S. citizens who charter or rent a Canadian-registered boat must possess "acceptable proof of competency," and a state-issued boater safety card should qualify.

Check this link: canadian_rules.html