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

• A person under 12 years of age may operate a vessel propelled by a motor of more than 10 horsepower, including a personal watercraft, only if he or she is accompanied on board by a responsible person who is at least 18 years old and experienced in operating the vessel.
• A person 12 years of age or older but younger than 18 years of age may operate a vessel propelled by a motor of more than 10 horsepower, including a personal watercraft, only if he or she:
  • Has successfully completed a boater education course approved by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources or ...
  • Is accompanied on board by a responsible person who is at least 18 years old and experienced in operating the vessel.
• Persons required to have completed a boating safety course successfully must carry their boater education certificate on board and make it available upon request by an enforcement officer.

Boater Education Certificate Operators required to have a Boater Education Certificate must carry it on board.