i took the power squadron course in 1997 in Annapolis. I didn't want to take the online exam, but couldn't find my card/ certificate. I called the power squadron's office in Raleigh I believe and after 10-15 mins on the phone, they found some paper record, in the storage boxes in the basement, that I had completed the course. They sent me a copy and I forwarded to DGIF with $10 and 5 days later had boater safety card in the mail. I'm 44, but very much worth the effort tracking it down.