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

Those 12 years of age and younger: May not legally operate any motorized vessel over 10 horsepower (including personal watercraft) unless accompanied by someone who is at least 18 years old.

Those 13 to 14 years of age: May legally operate a motorized vessel over 10 horsepower (including personal watercraft) only if they:

• Possess a valid Montana motorboat operator’s safety certificate or have evidence of completing an approved boating safety course, or ...
• Are accompanied on board by a person 18 years old or older.

A person must be at least 18 years old to rent a motorized vessel over 10 horsepower (including personal watercraft).

Motorboat Operator's Safety Certificate

Operators required to have a boater education certificate must carry it on board the vessel. These certificates are obtained by passing a boating safety course approved by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.