It's the Law: Before Going Out

Who May Operate/Age Restrictions

It is illegal for a parent or guardian to allow a child to operate a vessel in violation of the requirements below.

Individuals who are required to complete a boater safety course before operating a vessel must carry the course certificate on board the vessel.

Motorboats (Other Than a Personal Watercraft)

• A person under the age of 10 may not operate a motorboat.
• A person 10 or 11 years old may operate a motorboat only if accompanied by a parent, a guardian, or a person at least 18 years old who is designated by the parent or guardian.
• A person 12-15 years old may operate a motorboat only if:
  • He or she is accompanied by a parent, a guardian, or a person at least 18 years old who is designated by the parent or guardian or …
  • He or she has completed a boating safety course that is accepted by the Wisconsin DNR.
• A person born on or after January 1, 1989, and at least 16 years old may operate a motorboat only if he or she has completed a boating safety course that is accepted by the Wisconsin DNR.

Personal Watercraft (PWC)

• A person under the age of 12 may not operate a PWC.
• A person 12-15 years old may operate a PWC only if he or she has completed a boating safety course that is accepted by the Wisconsin DNR. (Parental supervision is not a substitute for a boating safety course certificate as with other motorboats.)
• A person born on or after January 1, 1989, and at least 16 years old may operate a PWC only if he or she has completed a boating safety course that is accepted by the Wisconsin DNR.
• A person under 16 years old may not rent or lease a PWC.