Age and Operator Restrictions

All persons operating a power-driven vessel with a motor that is more than 10 hp must complete a NASBLA– and State of Hawaii–approved boater safety education course and carry their certificate of completion on board while operating the vessel. The operator must complete a second certification specifically for thrill craft to legally operate a personal watercraft (PWC) in Hawaii waters. Taking this online course will satisfy the thrill craft educational requirements.

There is no minimum age to take this certification course, but all PWC operators must be 15 years of age or older to operate their craft. For more information, visit the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources website’s Personal Watercraft page.

Reciprocity

For visiting boaters, all states, territories, and provinces will recognize boating education cards that meet NASBLA requirements and Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Cards that meet Transport Canada’s requirements. This is known as “reciprocity.” Some states may have additional requirements. Check with the managing agencies in other states to verify the Hawaii Thrill Craft Operator Certificate satisfies all requirements of those states before launching.