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

Oregon’s mandatory boater education law will eventually require all Oregon recreational powerboaters operating craft of greater than 10 horsepower (hp) to complete an approved boater education course and apply for an Oregon Boater Education Card. This card is required for anyone operating the craft and must be carried on board. The law includes PWCs with engines over 10 hp. The requirement will be phased in as shown on the left.

Boater Education Card Boaters who have passed an approved boater education course may apply for an Oregon Boater Education Card from the Oregon State Marine Board. The Boater Education Card must be carried on board anytime you are operating a powerboat.

The law also establishes special requirements for younger boaters.

Those less than 12 years of age:

• May not legally operate any size powerboat.

Those 12 to 15 years of age:

• May legally operate a vessel powered by a motor of 10 hp or less alone only if he/she has received his/her Boater Education Card and is carrying it on board.
• May legally operate a vessel powered by a motor of greater than 10 hp only if he/she:
  • Has received his/her Boater Education Card and …
  • Is accompanied on board and is under the direct supervision of a parent, guardian, or responsible person 16 years old or older who possesses a valid Boater Education Card. If the vessel is a personal watercraft, the supervising person must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid Boater Education Card.

Requirements for Renting a Powerboat or PWC

To operate a rented powerboat or personal watercraft legally, a person must:

• Possess a valid Oregon Boater Education Card and carry it on board or …
• Complete a Watercraft Rental Safety Checklist and carry proof of completion on board.

To rent a personal watercraft legally, a person must be at least 18 years of age.