In Texas, operating a jet ski (also known as a personal watercraft, or PWC) is regulated by specific laws and regulations to ensure safety on the water.

Here are some key laws and regulations regarding jet skis in Texas…

• Age Requirements
  • Operators of personal watercraft must be at least 13 years old.
  • Children under 13 are prohibited from operating a jet ski unless accompanied by someone at least 18 years old.
• 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 operate a personal watercraft.
  • The boater education course must be completed by persons aged 13 and older to operate any motorized vessel, including jet skis.
• Safety Equipment
  • Each person on board a jet ski or being towed behind it must wear a US Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD) or life jacket.
  • A jet ski must also carry an approved sound-producing device (like a whistle) and a fire extinguisher if fuel is stored in an enclosed compartment.
• Operation Rules
  • Personal watercraft must observe all boating rules and regulations applicable to other vessels.
  • Specific rules include maintaining a safe distance from other vessels and following designated speed limits and no-wake zones.
• Hours of Operation
  • In Texas, the operation of a personal watercraft is prohibited between sunset and sunrise.
• Reckless Operation
  • Reckless or careless operation of a jet ski, such as weaving through congested traffic, jumping wakes too close to other vessels, or swerving at the last moment to avoid collision, is strictly prohibited.
• Alcohol and Drugs
  • It is illegal to operate a jet ski or any vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Texas.
• Registration
  • All personal watercraft must be registered and display current registration decals as required by TPWD.

These laws are in place to ensure the safety of both jet ski operators and others enjoying Texas waterways. All operators need to familiarize themselves with these regulations and follow them to avoid fines, accidents, or injuries while enjoying jet ski activities in Texas. For the most current and detailed information, you can visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or consult the TPWD boating regulations handbook.