In Texas, the laws regarding the minors’ operation of boats (including personal watercraft like jet skis) are as follows…
- Age Requirements
- A person must be at least 13 years old to legally operate a motor-powered boat or personal watercraft (PWC) on Texas public waters without adult supervision or certification.
- Boater Education Requirements
- 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 13 years old wants to operate a boat or 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.
- Enforcement:
- Law enforcement officers can enforce these regulations and may ask for proof of boater education certification and age.
Minors and their parents or guardians must familiarize themselves with these regulations to ensure compliance and the safe operation of boats and personal watercraft in Texas waters. Requirements can vary, so it is recommended that they check with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) or their official website for the latest information.
