It's The Law: Before Going Out

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 more than 15 horsepower 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 supervised by a person who:

• Is 18 years of age or older and …
• Can lawfully operate the watercraft and …
• Is on board when the vessel is underway.

A person at least 13 years of age and born on or after September 1, 1993, may operate without supervision only if he or she has passed a boater education course that is accepted by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

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 or student I.D. and …
• A boater education certification card issued by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department upon successful completion of a boater education course or proof of completion of the requirements to obtain a vessel operator's license issued by the U.S. Coast Guard.

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 and is NASBLA approved.

Party Boat Operator Licensing and Inspection Process

As of June 1, 2007, a Party Boat Operator License issued by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is required for operators of charter vessels, operating on inland waters, carrying more than six passengers and with a length exceeding 30 feet. The only exemption from this requirement is if the operator holds a current USCG Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel (OUPV) License, often referred to as a “6-pack license,” or higher level of Captain’s license issued by the USCG. Inland charter or party boats must now also have annual inspections and post the annual inspection certificate on their boat. For more details on the Party Boat Operator regulations, age and experience requirements, and application process, see the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website at www.tpwd.state.tx.us/partyboat.