Operator Age and Education Requirements for PWC

The following are requirements for personal watercraft (PWC) operators on Massachusetts waters.

• A person under 16 years of age may not operate a PWC on Massachusetts waters under any circumstances.
• A person 16 or 17 years of age may operate a PWC on Massachusetts waters only if he or she has passed a state-approved boating education course.
• A person 18 years of age or older may operate a PWC on Massachusetts waters without age restrictions.
• It is illegal to lease or rent a PWC to any person under 16 years of age. It is illegal to lease or rent a PWC to any person 16 or 17 years of age who does not have in his or her possession the required Boating Safety Certificate.