Having access to a boat when you’re going fishing gives you a lot more access to different areas of the lake, reservoir, or ocean you plan on fishing. A boat opens up a world of fishing opportunities, but before you take your boat out, you’ll need a valid boat license.
Not only is a boat license a legal requirement in almost all states and countries, but it also demonstrates that you have the skill to safely operate your boat. This is important for two reasons. Not only does it show that you’re safe and can look after yourself and the passengers on your boat, but it also demonstrates that you’ll be able to operate your boat in a safe way around other anglers and people on the water.
Waterways are busy places, especially during the peak summer months, so you have to have your wits about you, and part of boat license courses includes boating safety course to protect you and other people around you.
In the following guide to boat licenses, we’ll be covering:
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Getting a boat license is just the first step in the process. Finding some productive fishing locations to take your boat is the next step in landing some great fish.
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Detailed Age Requirements by State
Below, we have prepared a comprehensive state-by-state guide to boat license age requirements. Check through the table below to find your state and then the corresponding boat license minimum age requirement.
| State | Minimum Age Required For Boat License |
| Alabama | Operator Minimum Age – 12, but may not operate alone until age 14, and those aged 12–13 must be supervised by a licensed adult (21+) |
| Alaska | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Arizona | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Arkansas | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| California | Operator Minimum Age – 16 |
| Colorado | Operator Minimum Age – 14, only after completing a boating safety course |
| Connecticut | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| DC | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Delaware | Operator Minimum Age – 14 |
| Florida | Operator Minimum Age – 14 |
| Georgia | Operator Minimum Age – 16 |
| Hawaii | Operator Minimum Age – 15 |
| Idaho | Different Depending on the County |
| Illinois | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Indiana | Operator Minimum Age – 15 |
| Iowa | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Kansas | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Kentucky | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Louisiana | Operator Minimum Age – 10 |
| Maine | Operator Minimum Age – 16 |
| Maryland | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Massachusetts | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Michigan | Operator Minimum Age – 16 |
| Minnesota | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Mississippi | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Missouri | Operator Minimum Age – 16 |
| Montana | Operator Minimum Age – 13 |
| Nebraska | Operator Minimum Age – 14 |
| Nevada | Operator Minimum Age – 14 |
| New Hampshire | Operator Minimum Age – 15 |
| New Jersey | Operator Minimum Age – 13-15 for electric motors or boats under 10 hp. PWC requires 16 with certification |
| New Mexico | Operator Minimum Age – 13 |
| New York | Operator Minimum Age – 14 |
| North Carolina | Operator Minimum Age – 14 |
| North Dakota | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Ohio | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Oklahoma | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Oregon | Operator Minimum Age – 16 |
| Pennsylvania | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Rhode Island | Operator Minimum Age – Anyone born after 1986 |
| South Carolina | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| South Dakota | Operator Minimum Age – 14 |
| Tennessee | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Texas | Operator Minimum Age – 13 |
| Utah | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Vermont | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Virginia | Operator Minimum Age – 14 |
| Washington | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| West Virginia | Operator Minimum Age – 12 |
| Wisconsin | Operator Minimum Age – 16 |
| Wyoming | Operator Minimum Age – 16 |
- Please Note – Check with your local state organization to ensure that regulations haven’t changed or for more detailed information.
Federal vs. State Regulations
Getting a boat license isn’t just about your safety or the safety of your passengers while you’re out on the water. It’s also about protecting other people on the water, including boat operators, anglers, divers, and recreational users who may also be out on the water.
Being a responsible boat operator involves understanding and following all state and federal boating rules and regulations while also being respectful to other users in your area. Most waterways are significant areas, but that doesn’t mean you have them all to yourself and can do whatever you like.
If you plan on operating a boat in the United States, it’s essential you learn the boating rules, and not just at a state level. There are both federal and state regulations and laws that govern what we do when we’re out on the water.
Federal Boating Rules and Regulations and What They Cover
The United States Coast Guard has issued a series of boating and navigation rules that are available online. Some federal boating laws include:
- Navigation and Right of Way.
- Navigation Aids.
- Boat Documentation.
- Boat Safety Equipment Requirements.
- Communication and Emergency Notification.
- Pollution Regulations.
State Boating Rules and Regulations and What They Cover
State boating rules are specific to each state. However, some states may have the same or similar regulations and rules which cross over. If you’re planning on taking your boat out on the water, it’s essential to understand the state rules and regulations. Please note that rules and regulations are subject to change, so check with your state body before going boating for any changes or updates. Some state-specific boating laws include:
- Boater Education.
- Boat Operator Age.
- Boat Registration Requirements.
- Personal Floatation Device (PFD) Regulations.
- Operating A Vessel Under the Influence.
- Insurance Regulations.
- Specific State Waterway Rules and Regulations.
Checking the weather, conditions, and boating rules and regulations before you head out on the water is a great idea, even if you’re an experienced boat operator. While you’re out on the water, be respectful to other boaters, swimmers, divers, and recreators. It’s a great way to set a positive example for younger people who will be the next generation of boaters.
How to Obtain a Boating License
In most states, boat license courses or boating education courses are offered by 3rd party operators, and there will be a small fee associated with doing your boat safety or boat operator course.
How you attend the boat license or boat safety course will vary from state to state, with both online boat license courses and in-person courses. Most online courses give you the flexibility to complete them at your own pace and at a time that is convenient to you. Typically, boat license courses are broken up into different chapters with small reviews or tests that you’ll need to complete before you move on to the next section or chapter.
The point of the boating course isn’t to fail as many people as possible but to educate new and existing boat operators about current safety regulations, navigation laws, and best practices.
Boat license ages vary widely from state to state, so be sure to check out the table above for the age requirements in your state. Many states also recognize boat licenses from other states, but ultimately, it’s up to you, as the owner or operator of the boat, to check the regulations before you take out the boat.
Boat License Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the youngest age to get a boat license?
In most states, there is no uniform age like there would be for a driver’s license. Instead, you can complete a boating safety education requirement so that you can get your boating license at a younger age than simply waiting until you are old enough (this still often requires an adult on the vessel with you). Many states allow children as young as 12 or 13 to take a boating safety course and receive a certification card. This is exactly what I did as soon as I turned 12 or 13. I took my safety course and was then allowed to operate a boat with my grandpa on board. However, you should keep in mind that regulations differ from state to state, so be careful and do your research.
Do I need to take a boating safety course?
Yes, I would highly recommend everyone take this course so that you know what is going on when you’re out on the water. For example, in North Carolina, where I live, regardless of your age, you often have to prove you’ve taken a boating safety course to get out on the water. Additionally, most states require a boating safety course for operators who meet certain age or birthdate requirements. While this may sound like a stupid task, it allows you to learn about things such as what various markers mean so that you don’t accidentally run your boat aground or something of that nature. Just take the extra time and complete the safety course to be safe.
Can a 13 year old get a boating license in Florida?
A 13-year-old can take a Florida-approved boating safety course and receive a Boating Safety Education Card. However, just having the card does not automatically allow them to operate all boats. Sometimes, other restrictions can be in place, such as having to operate a watercraft with an adult onboard regardless of your boater education standing.
What is the minimum age to operate a boat in Florida?
In Florida, anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, must have a Boating Safety Education I.D. Card to operate a motorboat with 10 horsepower or more (which is going to be just about every boat out there, by the way). There is no minimum age to take the course, but younger operators may still face limitations, just like mentioned above. Additionally, personal watercraft have stricter age rules than standard motorboats, so be sure to adhere to those rules as well.
What is the minimum age to operate a jet ski or personal watercraft?
In many states, including Florida, operators of a jet ski or personal watercraft must be at least 14 years old. Anyone under that age is not legally allowed to do so, even with adult supervision.
Is my Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card accepted elsewhere?
Florida’s Boating Safety Education I.D. Card is widely recognized by many other states. Most states honor boating education certifications from NASBLA-approved courses. However, you should always check local laws when boating in another state so that you don’t run into any issues on the water.
Do adults need a boating license or safety card?
Adult requirements depend on the state and the operator’s birth year. Many states require adults born after a certain date to complete a boating safety course. Even if not required, taking a course is strongly recommended for safety and legal awareness. Just think about if we didn’t have all boat operators taking this course—there would be a lot more accidents on the water because uneducated people wouldn’t fully know what they’re doing, putting more people at risk for no reason at all.
Can I operate a boat without a license if an adult is present?
In some states, younger operators may be allowed to operate a boat under the direct supervision of a licensed or certified adult. This can also vary by state and by the type of boat being used. Always review boating laws before allowing a minor to operate a vessel so that you aren’t at risk of breaking any laws.
Is a boating license the same in every state?
No, boating license and education requirements vary by state. Age limits, course requirements, and accepted certifications can differ significantly. Checking state boating authority guidelines is the best way to ensure that you are in good standing with the law. While this system certainly needs some reform and continuity across all states, we still need to abide by the current rules in place.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Boating License? A Comprehensive Guide – Conclusion
Hopefully, thanks to the comprehensive and up-to-date information in the boat license guide above, you’ll know everything you need to know in order to get your boat license. Once you have your license and a boat, you’ll be ready to get out in the water in your local area and start landing some fantastic fish!
While you’re out on the water, particularly during peak times, always be aware of other boaters and people using the water. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and leading by example is an excellent way to show younger people the right and wrong way to operate a boat.
Thanks to the state-of-the-art technology in the Fishbox App, you’ll be able to accurately track weather conditions before you go out boating and predict the best times to hit the water when you’re planning your next boat trip. The Fishbox App combines predictive fish behavior with the weather, lunar, and tidal conditions to deliver optimal fishing opportunities for both fresh and saltwater anglers.
The Fishbox App was developed in collaboration with accurate weather data and expert fish behavioral analysis. These advanced forecasts will significantly increase your catch rate while reducing your time on the water. Take your fishing to the next level thanks to the expert advice from the Fishbox App team.