Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Who May Operate a Vessel

Persons born after January 1, 1984, may not operate a motorboat or PWC powered by a motor in excess of 10 horsepower unless he or she has successfully completed a boating safety course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA).

• These persons must be in possession of evidence of completion of the approved course whenever operating such a vessel.
• It is illegal for anyone under the age of 16 years to operate a personal watercraft (PWC).
• Note: Previously, only persons born after January 1, 1988, were required to take a boating safety course. Due to this change in the law, persons born between January 1, 1984, and January 1, 1988, have until July 1, 2010, to complete a course successfully.
• It is also unlawful for a person who owns or has charge of a personal watercraft to knowingly permit a person under the age of 16 years to operate the PWC. It is illegal for a rental company to rent a personal watercraft to anyone under 16 years of age.