Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Who May Operate a Vessel
Persons born after January 1, 1988, may not operate a motorboat
powered by a motor in excess of 10 horsepower unless he or she
has successfully completed a boating safety course approved by
the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA).
These persons must be in possession of evidence of completion of
the approved course whenever operating such a vessel.
It is illegal for anyone under the age of 16 years to operate
a personal watercraft (PWC). However, persons under 16 who were
13 years of age or older as of January 1, 2005, may operate a PWC
if they have completed an approved boating safety course and carry
proof of completion of the course.
It is also unlawful for a person who owns or has charge of a
personal watercraft to knowingly permit a person under the age
of 13 years to operate the PWC. It is illegal for a rental company
to rent a personal watercraft to anyone under 13 years of age.
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