Do I Need a License for Wisconsin Boat Rentals?

Boating can be a lot of fun, but to safely rent a boat on vacation or for a weekend adventure in Wisconsin, you need to understand the local rules and regulations.

For example, if you don't live in the state where you're renting a boat, do you need a license for that state? If you're unsure of the answer, the time to find out is before you make rental arrangements.

Wisconsin boat rentals can be great ways to enjoy the scenic beauty of the state and its waterways. However, you want peace of mind and feel confident when taking the boat out and exploring.

You can do that more easily with proper licensing information and knowledge about any regulations that may differ from your home boating state. Here's what to know.

What Are the Wisconsin Boating License Requirements?

If you were born after January 1, 1989, Wisconsin requires you to take a boating safety course to legally operate a motorboat (including personal watercraft) on waterways throughout the state.

Your Wisconsin Boating Safety Certificate will act as a "license" so you can rent and operate a boat. Rental companies must ensure you're appropriately licensed to reduce the risk of injury, damage, and insurance claims.

However, there's no boating license requirement if you're only planning to rent a non-motorized style of boat, such as a canoe or kayak. You can simply rent a non-motorized boat and explore the water without concerns about being in legal or regulatory compliance.

Boat Rental Exceptions

If you don't have a boating safety certificate but are interested in Wisconsin boat rentals, you can get a temporary boat rental certificate.

That allows you to operate a boat legally, but only during your rental period. There's a Boat-Ed course for this certificate that only costs $10, so you can get out on the water and start your boating adventure. 

Keep in mind that the temporary certificate won't provide you with permanent license status. It simply gives boat renters the opportunity to enjoy boating without any prior certification. However, it expires at the end of the calendar year.

If you plan to become a Wisconsin resident and continue boating, you'll need to take the permanent course for a "forever" license. Also, if you return to Wisconsin next year and rent another boat, you'll need to take the rental course again for temporary certification.

What About Your State's Certification for Out-of-State Boaters?

If you're visiting Wisconsin and have a valid boating license or safety certificate from your home state, it may be valid for rental boat operation. Whether it's recognized or not will depend on the state's reciprocity agreements.

These agreements involve two or more states that mutually agree to honor the licensing offered by the other state and can make boat rentals while traveling more convenient.

Always check with the boat rental provider to determine whether your out-of-state certification is accepted or whether you need to take a Wisconsin boating safety or boat rental course.

Age Restrictions

Like most states, Wisconsin has age restrictions for anyone operating a motorized boat. Children under the age of ten cannot operate any motorboat, no matter how small the motor.

However, if your children are between 10 and 15, they can operate a motorized boat if an adult accompanies them and they have completed a safety course. 

Anyone 16 or older doesn't need adult accompaniment and can operate a motorized boat alone if they have a valid boating certificate. Remember, though, that local laws are based on your boat ownership. So, a rental company may not allow children to operate their boats, no matter what licensing they have.

Rental Company Requirements Can Differ

Every rental company has its own policies and requirements. Generally, rental companies require renters to provide a boating safety certificate or other proof of licensing.

Before you try to rent a boat, make sure you ask about the requirements. This information can allow you to get a certificate or anything else you need ahead of time so you're ready when you arrive at the rental location. 

Learn Environmental and Local Regulations

Not only do you need to know the state's laws for Wisconsin boat rentals, but you also need to know if any local laws or regulations apply to specific lakes or other waterways. These regulations may include wake restrictions, no-wake zones, speed limits, and environmental requirements.

Rental companies typically provide guidance, but you're ultimately responsible for staying informed. Doing so can help you avoid fines and other penalties.

What Are the Consequences of Not Having a License?

Operating a motorboat without the proper licensing or certification can have severe legal consequences. Fines are the most common penalties, but there are more severe possibilities.

If you don't have appropriate certification and are in an accident, for example, insurance may refuse to cover the damage. That could lead to a lawsuit, significantly impacting your finances and future.

Hit the Water With Our Boat Education Course for Wisconsin Boat Rentals

A quick and easy way to get your short-term license before renting a boat is to take the Boat-Ed Wisconsin course for short-term certification. You'll learn essential rules and regulations for operating a boat in the state and valuable safety tips that can help protect you and your loved ones on all your boating excursions.

It's a quick course with an exam for only $10. After completing the course and passing the exam, you can print your temporary boating certificate and hit the water in Wisconsin!