More than one million boats are registered in Florida. With our year-round sunshine and gorgeous coastlines, it is easy to see why our state is known as the Boating Capital of the World.
Florida residents and tourists of all ages enjoy boating on Florida waters. So, how old do you need to be to operate a boat in Florida? Surprisingly, there is no minimum age to drive a boat in the Sunshine State. However, if you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you must complete a boating safety course and carry the ID card. Boaters ages 14 to 16 must complete the course, have the card, and be accompanied by a qualified adult with a valid card.
Age Limits for Personal Watercraft in Florida
Although you can operate a traditional boat at any age in Florida, the same rule does not apply to personal watercraft, such as Jet Skis, Sea-Doos, and WaveRunners. No one under 14 years of age may operate a personal watercraft on Florida waters, even if that person has completed a boating safety course and possesses a Florida Boating Safety Education ID card. There are no exceptions to this restriction.
Additionally, no one under 18 years old may rent or lease a personal watercraft in Florida. It is also illegal for the owner of a personal watercraft to knowingly allow a person under 14 years of age to operate a personal watercraft.
Mandatory Safety Education Requirements
While Florida does not have a minimum age to operate most boats, the state does have mandatory boating safety education requirements that apply to many boaters regardless of age. Anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, must complete an approved boating safety education course before operating a vessel powered by a motor of 10 horsepower or greater.
There are some exceptions to this requirement. For example, if you are licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard as a master of a vessel, or were born before January 1, 1988, you are exempt from the state education requirement.
You are also exempt from this requirement if you are not a Florida resident and can show proof that you completed a boater safety course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators or an equivalent examination from your home state.
And if you are operating a vessel with a licensed captain or a person who is at least 18 years old and holds the required credentials, and that person is attending the operation and is responsible for any violations, you may be exempt.
Temporary Certificates for Visitors
Florida recognizes that many tourists come to the state to enjoy boating, but may not have completed an approved boating safety course. To accommodate them, Florida offers a temporary certificate option.
Visitors may take a temporary certificate examination offered by FWC-authorized vendors located throughout the state and online. If you pass the exam, you will be issued a temporary certificate that is valid for 90 days.
This temporary certificate allows you to operate boats in Florida during your visit, but it is not a substitute for a permanent Boating Safety Education ID Card. If you plan to boat in Florida frequently or become a resident, you need to complete the full approved safety course and obtain a permanent card.
Contact Rosen Injury Law
If you are injured in a boating accident in Fort Lauderdale that was caused by another party’s negligence. You may be entitled to recover compensation. At Rosen Injury Law, we have a proven record of securing maximum compensation for our clients and want to help you recover the compensation you are entitled to.
Call (954) 787-1500 or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation.