Operator Age and Education Requirements

The following are requirements for vessel operators on New Hampshire waters.

• A vessel powered by 25 horsepower or less does not require the operator to have a Safe Boater Education Certificate.
• A “ski craft” may be operated only by persons who are 16 years old or older and who have a valid Safe Boater Education Certificate.
• A vessel powered by more than 25 horsepower (other than a “ski craft”) may be operated by:
  • A person under 16 years of age only if he or she is accompanied by a person 18 years old or older who has a valid Safe Boater Education Certificate. The accompanying person is responsible for any injury or damage caused during operation of the vessel.
  • A person 16 years of age or older only if he or she has obtained a Safe Boater Education Certificate.