Boat operator age restrictions

Who may operate a boat with a motor?

In Michigan, there are age requirements to operate a motorboat and/or personal watercraft, which vary based on age and the type of vessel.

Operating a boat with a motor (excluding personal watercraft)

Less than 12 years of age:

• Up to 6 horsepower: May operate without restrictions.
• More than 6 horsepower, up to 35 horsepower: May operate only if they:
• Possess a valid boating safety certificate on board.
• Are directly supervised on board by someone at least 16 years old.
• More than 35 horsepower: May not operate under any circumstances.

Born on or after July 1, 1996:

• May operate a boat with a motor more than 6 horsepower only if they possess boating safety certificate.

Born before July 1, 1996:

• May operate a boat with a motor without restrictions.

Operating a personal watercraft (like a jet ski or wave runner)

Less than 14 years of age:

• May not legally operate a personal watercraft.

14 and 15 years of age:

• Have obtained a boating safety certificate AND:
• Accompanied on board by their parent, legal guardian or a designated person (at least 21 years old)
• Operating within 100 feet of their parent, legal guardian or designated person (at least 21 years old) while that person is also operating a personal watercraft.

At least 16 years of age AND born after Dec. 31, 1978:

• May operate a personal watercraft only if they have obtained a boating safety certificate.

Born On or Before December 31, 1978:

• May operate a personal watercraft without restriction