What is the Minimum Age to Get a California Boating License?
The minimum age to get a California boating license (also called a California Boater Card) is 16 to operate a motorized vessel of 15 horsepower or more independently. Operators between the ages of 12 and 15 may operate those same vessels with proper adult supervision.
As of January 1, 2025, all motorized vessel operators in California — regardless of age — are required to carry a California Boater Card on the water.
Keep reading to learn the minimum age requirements, who needs a card, and how to get one.
What Is the Minimum Age to Operate a Boat in California?
California law sets 16 as the minimum age to independently operate a motorized vessel with a motor of more than 15 horsepower, including personal watercraft (PWC) such as Jet Skis.
Boaters who are 12 to 15 years old may operate those same vessels only when directly supervised onboard by an adult who is at least 18 years old and holds a valid California Boater Card. Children under 12 may not operate any motorized vessel of more than 15 horsepower.
There is no age restriction for operating a sailboat under 30 feet in length (when wind is the primary propulsion source) or a dinghy used between a moored vessel and shore.
Who Needs a California Boating License?
Do you need a California boating license this season? As of January 1, 2025, every person who operates a motorized vessel on California waterways must carry a California Boater Card. This requirement applies to all ages — there is no longer any age-based phase-in or exemption.
The California Boater Card is issued by the California Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) and serves as proof that you have passed an approved boating safety course. Once issued, the card is valid for life and does not need to be renewed.
California Boating Age Requirements by Vessel Type
California's boating regulations include requirements and restrictions based on age for different types of vessels. This is to help all operators enjoy more safe adventures on the water.
Requirements by Age and Vessel Type (California Boating) | |||
| Operator Age | Vessel Type | Can Operate? | Conditions |
| Under 12 | Motorized vessel (15+ HP) | No | Not permitted under any circumstances |
| 12–15 | Motorized vessel (15+ HP) | Yes | Must be supervised onboard by an adult 18+ with a valid California Boater Card |
| 12–15 | PWC | Yes | Same supervision requirement applies as above |
| 16+ | Motorized vessel (15+ HP) | Yes | Must carry a valid California Boater Card |
| 16+ | PWC | Yes | Must carry a valid California Boater Card |
| Any Age | Sailboat under 30 ft | Yes | No age restriction |
| Any Age | Dinghy (moored vessel to shore) | Yes | No age restriction |
Exemptions from the California Boater Card Requirement
Certain operators are exempt from the California Boater Card requirement. The table below summarizes the most common exemptions.
California Boater Card Exemptions | |
| Exemption | Details |
| Direct supervision | A person operating under the direct supervision of an adult 18 or older who holds a valid California Boater Card |
| Out-of-state visitors | Non-residents temporarily operating a vessel in California for fewer than 60 days who meet their home state's boating requirements |
| Commercial operators | Anyone operating a commercial vessel with a valid maritime, commercial fishing, or U.S. Coast Guard license |
| Government personnel | Government employees operating watercraft for official duties such as rescue or law enforcement |
| Organized events | Persons operating a vessel in a sanctioned boat race, regatta, or water ski race |
| Rental vessels | Persons operating a rental vessel from an authorized livery, provided specific safety instruction and documentation requirements are met |
How to Get Your California Boater Card
Follow these steps to get your boating license in California.
- Meet the minimum age requirement. You must be at least 16 to operate a motorized vessel of more than 15 horsepower independently. Boaters ages 12 to 15 may complete the course and receive a card, but must be supervised onboard by a qualifying adult.
- Complete an approved boating safety course. Enroll in a California Division of Boating and Waterways–approved course, such as the Boat-Ed California course. The course is available online and can be completed at your own pace on any device.
- Pass the final exam. You must pass the state-required exam after completing the boater safety course to earn your boating safety certificate.
- Apply for your California Boater Card. After passing the exam, submit your application through the DBW. You can print a temporary card to use on the water while your permanent card is processed.
- Carry your card on the water. California law requires you to have your California Boater Card with you anytime you operate a motorized vessel.
Does California Accept Out-of-State Boating Cards?
Yes. Non-residents who are temporarily operating a vessel in California for fewer than 60 days and who meet the boating education requirements of their home state are exempt from the California Boater Card requirement.
If your home state does not have boating education requirements, you are not automatically exempt and may need to obtain a California Boater Card before operating on state waterways. California also recognizes boating education cards that meet NASBLA standards, as well as Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Cards (PCOC).
Start Your California Boater Safety Course Today
Getting your California Boater Card is straightforward. The Boat-Ed California course is approved by the California Division of Boating and Waterways and is available entirely online on any device at your own pace.
After passing the final exam, you can print a temporary card and get on the water right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the minimum age to get a boating license in California?
A: The minimum age to get a California Boater Card is 16 to independently operate a motorized vessel with a motor of more than 15 horsepower. Boaters ages 12 to 15 may also obtain a card, but must be supervised onboard by an adult who is at least 18 and holds a valid California Boater Card.
Q: What is the minimum age to operate a boat in California?
A: You must be at least 16 years old to independently operate a motorized vessel with a motor of more than 15 horsepower in California. Boaters ages 12 to 15 may operate those vessels only when supervised onboard by an adult who is at least 18 and holds a valid California Boater Card.
Q: Can a child under 16 operate a boat in California?
A: Yes, with restrictions. Boaters ages 12 to 15 may operate a motorized vessel with a motor of more than 15 horsepower, including PWCs, if they are directly supervised onboard by a person who is at least 18 years old and holds a valid California Boater Card. Children under 12 may not operate motorized vessels of more than 15 horsepower under any circumstances.
Q: What is the minimum age to operate a Jet Ski in California?
A: The minimum age to independently operate a personal watercraft (PWC), including Jet Skis and WaveRunners, in California is 16. Riders ages 12 to 15 may operate a PWC only when directly supervised onboard by an adult who is at least 18 and holds a valid California Boater Card.
Q: Do I need a California Boater Card if I already have a card from another state?
A: If you are a non-resident temporarily operating a vessel in California for fewer than 60 days and your home state has boating education requirements that you have met, you are exempt from the California Boater Card requirement. If your home state has no such requirements, you may need to obtain a California Boater Card before boating on California waterways.
Q: How much does the California boating safety course cost?
A: The Boat-Ed California course fee is $54.95. Course fees across approved providers generally range from $30 to $80.
Q: Is the California Boater Card the same as a boating license?
A: California does not issue a traditional boating license. The California Boater Card serves the same purpose. It is proof that you have passed an approved boating safety education course and are authorized to operate a motorized vessel on California waterways. The card does not expire and never needs to be renewed.
Q: How long does it take to get a California Boater Card?
A: You can complete the online course and exam in a few hours, at your own pace. After passing, you can print a temporary card immediately. Your permanent California Boater Card is mailed to you after your application is processed by the DBW.
Q: Does the California Boater Card expire?
A: No. The California Boater Card is valid for life once issued. You do not need to renew it or retake the course.
