Operator Age and Education Requirements for a Vessel
According to a new law passed in New York, these requirements apply to persons operating a recreational boat (other than a PWC) in New York.
- If you are under 10 years of age:
- You may not take a boating safety course and…
- You must be accompanied on board by a person 18 years of age or older who either has a Boating Safety Certificate on board or is not required to have a certificate.
- If you are 10 years of age or older, you may operate a boat legally only if you meet the requirement to have a Boating Safety Certificate as shown in the table:
- If you are required to have a Boating Safety Certificate, you must carry it on board the vessel.
- All persons operating a motorized vessel must have a Boating Safety Certificate by January 1, 2025.
The following table shows when a person operating a vessel other than a PWC is required to have a Boating Safety Certificate.
| If you were born on or after: | You will need a Boating Safety Certificate when operating a motorized vessel in: |
|---|---|
| January 1, 1993 | 2020 |
| January 1, 1988 | 2022 |
| January 1, 1983 | 2023 |
| January 1, 1978 | 2024 |
All operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, will need a Boating Safety Certificate by January 1, 2025.
