Operator Certificate and Endorsement Requirements
With few exceptions, Connecticut residents operating any vessel outfitted with propulsion machinery regardless of size, or non-motorized sailboats greater than 19.5 feet, must possess a boating certificate to comply with Connecticut law.
A boating certificate is required for operation of certain boats and for operation of all personal watercraft (PWC) in Connecticut. The type of certificate depends on the vessel being operated.
- Currently, Connecticut issues two types of boating certificates: a Safe Boating Certificate (SBC) and a Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation (CPWO). An SBC allows the holder to operate boats only. A CPWO allows the holder to operate boats and PWC. A person may hold only one type of boating certificate. If a person possesses an SBC and chooses to upgrade to a CPWO, they must successfully complete an approved class and purchase a CPWO.
- To operate a PWC, regardless of age, you must have a CPWO.
- The SBC or CPWO must be carried on board the vessel whenever it is operated by someone required to have a certificate.
To operate a vessel engaged in waterskiing, as defined by Connecticut, which includes the towing of persons on skis, inflatable devices, boards, or while barefoot, you must:
- Be at least 16 years of age and…
- Possess a valid boating certificate or approved license from Connecticut, a recognized reciprocal state, or the USCG and…
- Have a Safe Waterskiing Endorsement if you obtained your boating certificate after October 1, 2015.
