Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Who May Operate a PWC

A person younger than 14 years may not operate a PWC legally.

A person 14 or 15 years old may operate a PWC only if:

• He or she is accompanied on board the PWC by an adult who is at least 18 years old or …
• He or she has on his or her person identification showing proof of age and a boater education certification card showing proof of passing a boating safety course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.

A person 16 years of age or older may operate a PWC without completing a boating safety course.

It is unlawful for a person to knowingly allow a child under 16 years of age over whom they have permanent or temporary responsibility to operate a PWC illegally.