Yes, in Texas, a 13-year-old can legally operate a jet ski or other personal watercraft (PWC) if they meet the following conditions…

• Age Requirement – The minimum age to operate a PWC in Texas is 13 years old.
• Boater Education Requirement – Anyone born on or after September 1, 1993, must complete a boater education course approved by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) to legally operate a vessel with a motor of more than 15 horsepower, including PWCs. There is no minimum age requirement to take the course, but the person must be old enough to pass the course and the exam.
• Supervision – If a person under 18 wants to operate a PWC, they must be directly supervised by someone on board who is at least 18 and meets the boater education requirements if they were born on or after September 1, 1993.

Minors and their parents or guardians should understand and adhere to these rules to ensure safety and compliance with state boating laws in Texas.