Operator Age and Education Requirements

The following are the requirements for vessel operators on South Carolina waters.

• Persons 16 years of age or older may operate any boat or personal watercraft (PWC) without restrictions.
• Persons younger than 16 years of age may operate:
  • A boat or PWC powered by less than 15 horsepower without restrictions.
  • A boat or PWC powered by 15 horsepower or more only if:
    • They are accompanied by an adult at least 18 years old who is not under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs or...
    • They have passed a boating safety course approved by the SCDNR.
• It is unlawful for a person to cause or allow a child over whom they have permanent or temporary responsibility to operate a boat or PWC illegally.