Utah Boating Laws and Regulations

Age and Operator Restrictions

Boating safety education certificates are required of the following operators:

• Persons 12 through 15 years of age may operate a PWC provided the operator has completed a boating education course approved by the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, has in his or her possession the certificate issued by the course provider, and is under the direct supervision of a responsible person who is at least 18 years old.
• Persons 16 through 17 years of age may operate a PWC provided the operator has completed a boating education course approved by the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation and has in his or her possession the certificate issued by the course provider.
• Motorized boats and sailboats may be operated by a person under 16 years of age only if they are under the direct supervision of a responsible person who is at least 18 years old.

PWC may be operated by a person 18 years old or older without education or supervision requirements.

For more information regarding the rules and regulations, please visit the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation website.

Enforcement

Utah law enforcement officers patrol the waterways to make your boating experience safe and pleasant. Cooperate with them by following the laws and guidelines.

Carry the Card: Vessel operators who are required to have a Boater Education Card must carry the card on board the vessel and have it available for inspection by an enforcement officer.

Penalty: Not carrying your Boater Education Card when one is required can result in a fine.

Reciprocity

For visiting boaters, all states, territories, and provinces will recognize boating education cards that meet NASBLA requirements and Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Cards that meet Transport Canada’s requirements. (This is known as “reciprocity.”)