Rounder
Official South Carolina Boating Handbook South Carolina Department of Natural Resources logo

It's the Law: Before Going Out

Who May Operate a Boat or PWC

Persons 16 years of age or older may operate any boat or PWC without restrictions.

Persons younger than 16 years of age may operate:

  • A boat or PWC powered by less than 15 horsepower without restrictions
  • A boat or PWC powered by 15 horsepower or more only if one of the following conditions is met.
    • They are accompanied by an adult at least 18 years old who is not under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
    • They have passed a boating safety course approved by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.

It is unlawful for a person to cause or allow a child over whom they have permanent or temporary responsibility to operate a boat or PWC illegally.

Teenager on PWC

Separator
South Carolina Department
of Natural Resources
Get Started!
Boating Basics
It's the Law!
South Carolina Info

South Carolina Boating Handbook
Printable PDF Version
of Handbook

< Back to Previous Page Table of Contents Go to Next Page >
 
Online boating safety handbook last modified: April 22, 2008
Email with questions or comments about this web site.
  Copyright © 1998-2008 Boat Ed. All rights reserved.
Review Boat Ed's privacy policy.
 
Rounder