Operator Age and Education Requirements
The following are the requirements for vessel operators on Texas waters.
- Operators must meet the age and boater education requirements listed below in order to operate any of the following vessels legally in Texas:
- A powerboat powered by a motor of more than 15 horsepower or…
- A windblown vessel over 14 feet in length.
- A person less than 13 years of age may operate only if he or she is supervised by a person who:
- Is 18 years of age or older and…
- Can lawfully operate the watercraft and…
- Is on board when the vessel is underway.
- A person at least 13 years of age and born on or after September 1, 1993, may operate without supervision only if he or she has passed a boater education course that is accepted by TPWD.
- All persons required to have passed a state-approved boater education course must carry with them on the vessel:
- Photographic identification such as driver’s license or student I.D. and…
- A boater education certification card issued by TPWD upon successful completion of a boater education course or proof of completion of the requirements to obtain a vessel operator's license issued by the USCG.
- Non-residents may fulfill the Texas boater education requirement by supplying proof that they have passed another state’s boater education course that is accepted by TPWD and is NASBLA approved.
