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

The following restrictions apply to the operation of boats propelled by an internal combustion motor on Pennsylvania’s public waters.

• A person 11 years of age or younger may not legally operate a boat powered by a motor greater than 25 horsepower (hp) under any conditions.
• Persons born on or after January 1, 1982, may not operate boats powered by a motor greater than 25 hp unless they have in their possession a Boating Safety Education Certificate.
• There are no age restrictions on operation of motorboats 25 hp or less.
• Residents of other states who were born on or after January 1, 1982, and operate on Pennsylvania’s waters for 60 days or less are exempt if they hold a boating safety certificate issued by their home state.

Who May Operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC)

• A person 11 years of age or younger may not operate a PWC legally.
• Anyone operating a PWC on Pennsylvania’s public waters must have in their possession a Boating Safety Education Certificate.
• A person 12 through 15 years of age may not legally operate a PWC with any passengers 15 years of age or younger on board.
• It is illegal to rent a PWC to anyone less than 16 years of age. No one less than 16 years of age may operate a rented PWC.

Boating Safety Education Certificate

Operators who are required to have a Boating Safety Education Certificate must carry it on board the vessel.