What is the minimum age to operate a boat?
Persons under the age of 12 may not operate a powered boat unless they are accompanied by an adult at least 18 years old, who can take immediate control of the vessel. This adult, if born after January 1, 1989 must be certified in boating safety education. There is no age or certification requirement if operating a boat that is powered by an outboard motor of 8.5 horsepower or less.
Persons under 12 years old may not operate a powered boat of more than 8.5 horsepower unless they are accompanied by an adult who can take immediate control of the vessel. If the accompanying adult is born after January 1, 1989, then he/she must have the boating safety certification card onboard. Personal watercraft may not be rented by anyone younger that 16 years of age.
