It's the Law: Before Going Out
Who May Operate a Vessel (625 ILCS 45/5-18)
- Persons under the age of 10 may not operate any motorized vessel,
including personal watercraft.
- Persons at least 10 years old but less than 12 years old may
operate a motorized vessel, including a personal watercraft, only
if they are accompanied by and under the direct control of a
parent, a guardian, or a person at least 18 years old designated
by the parent or guardian.
- Persons at least 12 years old but less than 18 years old may
operate a motorized vessel, including a personal watercraft, only
if:
- They complete a boating safety course and possess a
boating safety education card accepted by the Department
of Natural Resources or …
- They are accompanied by and under the direct control of
a parent, a guardian, or a person at least 18 years old designated
by the parent or guardian.
- Persons 18 years old or older are not subject to operator
age restrictions.
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