Here is the breakdown of the states that require a license to operate a personal watercraft, sourced from the US Coast Guard.
| State | Require A License |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Yes |
| Alaska | No |
| American Samoa | Yes |
| Arizona | No |
| Arkansas | Yes |
| Australia | Yes |
| California | Yes |
| Colorado | Yes |
| Connecticut | Yes |
| Delaware | Yes |
| District of Columbia | Yes |
| Florida | Yes |
| Georgia | Yes |
| Guam | No |
| Hawaii | Yes |
| Idaho | No |
| Illinois | Yes |
| Indiana | Yes |
| Iowa | Yes |
| Kansas | Yes |
| Kentucky | Yes |
| Louisiana | Yes |
| Maine | Yes |
| Maryland | Yes |
| Massachusetts | Yes |
| Michigan | Yes |
| Minnesota | Yes |
| Mississippi | Yes |
| Missouri | Yes |
| Montana | Yes |
| Nebraska | Yes |
| Nevada | Yes |
| New Hampshire | Yes |
| New Jersey | Yes |
| New Mexico | Yes |
| New York | Yes |
| North Carolina | Yes |
| North Dakota | Yes |
| Northern Mariana Islands | No |
| Ohio | Yes |
| Oklahoma | Yes |
| Oregon | Yes |
| Pennsylvania | Yes |
| Puerto Rico | Yes |
| Rhode Island | Yes |
| South Carolina | Yes |
| South Dakota | No |
| Tennessee | Yes |
| Texas | Yes |
| Utah | Yes |
| Vermont | Yes |
| Virginia | Yes |
| Washington | Yes |
| West Virginia | Yes |
| Wisconsin | Yes |
| Wyoming | No |
Interestingly, more than 80% of places listed in the chart above require one.
What Are the Age Requirements?
EEach state and country has its own rules for the minimum driving age.
In some states, you can operate a jet ski alone at 18, while others allow 12-year-olds to ride with an adult present. Typically, you need to be at least 16 and complete a boating safety course to ride alone.
The age requirements vary, but the U.S. Coast Guard provides a helpful chart with more details. This includes information about individuals exempt from licensing requirements due to their birthdates (“grandfathered” individuals).
Rentals
Many watercraft rentals require adherence to state licensing laws. Keep in mind, licenses from other states may not be accepted.
So, Do You Need a License?
Most states mandate that you have a boating license to operate a jet ski. This rule often applies even when renting one. However, some states offer 90-day licenses for temporary situations. Always check the rules, as licenses are generally not valid across state lines.
Although it may feel like an inconvenience, as someone who has experienced and witnessed numerous water-related accidents, I believe obtaining a license is a smart idea. The tests are straightforward, and you’ll gain valuable knowledge about safety and best practices on the water.
The Steps To Get Your license:
Obtaining a license is simple. Visit Boat-ed.com, watch instructional videos, and pass the test. I completed mine in 2010 in North Carolina. After passing, you can pay online and immediately print your certification.
Note that permits might not be recognized in all states. For example, if you’re certified in NC but vacationing in FL, you may need permits for both states.
Additionally, some states require individuals under 18 to attend in-person classes and pass tests to be certified.
Here are A Few things You’ll Learn
A boating safety course covers essential knowledge for operating and maintaining watercraft. Here are some highlights:
- Boating Safety: Learn water navigation, collision avoidance, and accident prevention.
- Rules of the Water: Understand local boating regulations like speed limits, navigation rules, and right-of-way.
- Navigation: Cover buoys, no wake-zones, beacons, and other navigation essentials.
- Boat Maintenance: Know basic maintenance and eco-friendly oil disposal to keep waters clean.
- Emergency Procedures: Learn how to respond to emergencies, use safety gear, like life jackets and distress signals.
- Pull Sports: You learn about pull sports safety.
- Environmental Awareness: Discover marine ecosystem protection and minimize your impact while boating.
Why Licensing Matters
Licenses have become more common as boating and watercraft activities have grown. With more powerful vessels and inexperienced operators, the number of accidents has risen. Implementing licensing requirements is a response to this trend.
I’ve seen too many accidents caused by riders—both young and old—who lacked proper knowledge of watercraft safety. I strongly believe licensing is beneficial for everyone, regardless of age.
