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

Age Requirements and Restrictions

Washington's boater education law took effect in 2008.

• Persons under 12 years of age may not operate a power-driven vessel with an engine that is 15 horsepower or more.
• Persons 12 years of age or older may operate a power-driven vessel with an engine that is 15 horsepower or more if they have a Boater Education Card (see below).
• Persons 14 years of age or older may operate a personal watercraft (PWC) if they have a Boater Education Card (see below).
• It is illegal to lease, hire, or rent a personal watercraft to anyone under 16 years of age.

Boater Education Card Requirements

Washington's boater education law is being phased in by operator age over several years as shown on the phase-in schedule to the left. After January 1, 2014, all boaters, unless exempt, must have a Washington Boater Education Card. For additional information about obtaining a Boater Education Card, including a complete list of exemptions, visit the Washington State Parks site.

• Before operating a vessel powered by 15 horsepower or more, all boaters 12 years of age or older will eventually be required to:
  • Pass an approved boating safety education course or equivalency exam and…
  • Obtain a Boater Education Card.

The phase-in schedule for completing the mandatory boating safety education course is shown below.

Washington Boater Education Card Persons required to have a Boater Education Card must carry it on board whenever operating.

Persons exempted from the phased-in mandatory boater safety education requirement include:

• Any person born before January 1, 1955
• Any person who is renting, chartering, or leasing a power-driven vessel with an engine that is 15 horsepower or more (other than a personal watercraft) and who completes an approved motor vessel safety operating and equipment checklist (during the rental period only)
• Any person at least 16 years of age who is renting, chartering, or leasing a personal watercraft and who completes an approved motor vessel safety operating and equipment checklist (during the rental period only)
• Any person who is a non-resident and who operates on Washington waters for 60 consecutive days or less
• Any person who is a non-resident and holds a current, approved out-of-state or out-of-country boater safety education certificate or card
• Any person who has purchased the vessel within the last 60 days and has a bill of sale in his or her possession
• Operators of commercial, law enforcement, or government vessels and persons with a USCG captain's license
• Operators involved in practicing for or participating in a permitted marine event