In order to operate a motorboat of ten (10) horsepower or greater, Florida law requires anyone who was born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 to successfully complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Boating Safety Education Identification Card issued by the FWC.
Who must take boater education? Anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 who operates any vessel over 15 horsepower, wind-blown vessel over 14 feet and all personal watercraft. Boater Education is also required for certain violations of the Texas Water Safety Act.
Do you need the Boater Card? As of January 1, 2020, California law requires all boaters 35 years of age or younger to carry the Boater Card. All boaters regardless of age are required to obtain the card by 2025.
Florida boating laws require all boat operators born after Jan. 1, 1988, to get certified by completing a boater safety course. This certification is sometimes called a “Florida boating license.”
Basic Applicant Requirements Party Boat Operator License is required of operators of charter vessels carrying more than six passengers and with a length exceeding 30 feet, operating on inland waters.
While Texas does not require you to obtain boat insurance to operate your watercraft, this does not mean you should go without protection or coverage. Similar to the benefits of car insurance and risks of the open road, accidents do happen on the water.Jul 6, 2021
16 years of age or olderAge and Operator Restrictions California law requires a person to be 16 years of age or older and in possession of his/her California Boater Card to legally operate a vessel powered by a motor of 15 hp or more, including personal watercraft (PWCs).
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs aka Life Jackets) California boating law requires that all boats 16 feet or more in length, except canoes and kayaks must carry one wearable life jacket (Type I, II, III or V) for each person on board and one throwable (Type IV) device in each boat. PFDs must be readily accessible.Jan 1, 2018
Do I need a license to rent and operate a boat in Florida? The short answer is no; the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, which regulates boating, does not require a “boating license”. However, it does require that you be familiar with boating safety, which can be demonstrated in different ways.Aug 6, 2019
Technically, Florida does not require a “license”, but the Boating Safety ID Card serves the same purpose. Boaters must also have a valid photo ID on hand while operating a boat. Not having your Boating Safety ID Card with you while operating a boat will result in a fine.Oct 30, 2018
All vessels are required to have onboard a wearable USCG-approved personal flotation device (PFD) for each person. The PFDs must be of the appropriate size for the intended wearer, be in serviceable condition, and within easy access. The state of Florida urges all people onboard a boat to wear a life jacket.