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Boat operator age restrictions

Who may operate a motorized boat?

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

Operating a motorized boat (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 motorized boat more than 6 horsepower only if they possess boating safety certificate.

Born before July 1, 1996:

  • May operate a motorized boat without restrictions.

Operating a personal watercraft (ie. jet ski, 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

Additional training

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and United States Power Squadron (also known as America's Boating Club) offer fundamental to advanced courses. These classes can provide the knowledge needed to obtain a boating safety certificate and may have associated fees.