Boat License Age, Boating Age By State

While the term "boat license age" is often used to describe the age at which you can legally operate a boat, it's important to remember that each state has unique laws regarding boater education requirements and boat operator ages. Learn about the legal boating age and boater education requirements for your state. Be a safe and responsible boater.

Boating Age Requirements by State

Are you wondering at what age can you get your boat license? The answer to the question about boating age just depends on where you live and operate your boat. In addition, there may be state-specific laws or rules that pertain to the size of the boat and the manner in which the boat is powered. Some states may not require you to have a boating license, but is require to complete a boating safety course. Please check the state boating regulations where you are planning to go boating.

Since every state has different boating laws that apply to boat operator age and vessel safety education, make sure you know the minimum age requirements for operating a boat in your specific state. Even if your state doesn't require you to take a boating safety course or get a boating license, it is your responsibility to learn how to boat in a safe and responsible manner.

Alabama	The operator must be at least 12 years old*.
Alaska	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Arizona	No one under the age of 12 years may operate a motorized vessel unless is an emergency*.
Arkansas	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
California	The operator should be at least 16 years old*.
Colorado	The operator should be at least 14 years old*.
Connecticut	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Delaware	The operator must be at least 14 years old*.
DC	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Florida	The operator should be at least 14 years old*.
Georgia	The operator should be at least 16 years old*.
Hawaii	The operator should be at least 15 years old*.
Idaho	Certain counties have age restrictions for minimum operator age. Please check with the counties and cities in which you plan to boat.
Illinois	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Indiana	The operator should be at least 15 years old*.
Iowa	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Kansas	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Kentucky	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Indiana	The operator should be at least 15 years old*.
Iowa	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Kansas	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Kentucky	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Louisiana	The operator should be at least 10 years old*.
Maine	The operator should be at least 16 years old*.
Maryland	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Massachusetts	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Michigan	The operator should be at least 16 years old*.
Minnesota	The operator must be at least 12 years old*.
Mississippi	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Missouri	The operator should be at least 16 years old*.
Montana	The operator should be at least 13 years old*.
Nebraska	The operator should be at least 14 years old*.
Nevada	The operator should be at least 14 years old*.
New Hampshire	The operator should be at least 15 years old*.
New Jersey	The operator should be at least 13 years old*.
New Mexico	The operator should be at least 13 years old*.
New York	The operator should be at least 14 years old*.
North Carolina	The operator should be at least 14 years old*.
North Dakota	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Ohio	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Oklahoma	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Oregon	The operator should be at least 16 years old*.
Pennsylvania	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Rhode Island	All those born on or after January 1, 1986, are required to pass an approved boater education course
South Carolina	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
South Dakota	The operator should be at least 14 years old*.
Tennessee	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Texas	The operator should be at least 13 years old*.
Utah	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Vermont	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Virginia	The operator should be at least 14 years old*.
Washington	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
West Virginia	The operator should be at least 12 years old*.
Wisconsin	The operator should be at least 16 years old*.
Wyoming	The operator should be at least 16 years old*.

*Check state boating regulations for more info.

You may notice that there are states, such as California, which require all boat owners to take a recreational boating safety course. In other words, if you live in California and own a boat, you have to pass a boating safety test to earn your California boating license or California Boater Card in order to operate a motorized vessel. The boat license age is

Regardless of your age or amount of boating experience, boater education is always recommended to refresh your skills and prevent accidents on the water. Trained boaters know safe boat operating procedures, navigation, communication, and emergency protocol.

Boating Safety Card Versus Charter Boating License

Be aware that a recreational boating safety certificate or boating safety card is not the same as a charter boat license. Your boating safety certification or boaters safety card is proof that you have passed a state-approved recreational boating safety course. A charter boat license (also referred to as a captain's license) is an additional requirement for those who plan on taking paying passengers aboard, or those who wish to professionally pursue a career as a boater.

Just think, you could start out as a recreational boater with your boater safety card, and then decide that you want to get your professional charter boat license someday.

KEEP LEARNING