It's The Law: Before Going Out on Your Vessel

Who May Operate a Vessel

Operators must meet the age and boater education requirements shown below in order to operate any of the following vessels legally in Texas:

• A powerboat powered by a motor of 10 horsepower or more or …
• A personal watercraft or …
• A windblown vessel over 14 feet in length.

A person less than 13 years of age may operate only if he or she is accompanied on board by a person who is 18 years of age or older.

A person 13 through 17 years of age may operate only if he or she:

• Has passed a boater education course approved by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department or …
• Is accompanied on board by a person who is 18 years of age or older.

All persons required to have passed a state-approved boater education course must carry with them on the vessel:

• Photographic identification, such as a driver’s license, and …
• A boater education certification card issued by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. upon successful completion of a boater education course.

Non-residents may fulfill the Texas boater education requirement by supplying proof that they have passed another state’s boater education course that is accepted by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.