Who Is Exempt From California Boating License Requirements? While most boat operators need a license, there are some exemptions. For example, individuals renting a motorized vessel do not need to have a boating license as long as they complete a rental checklist provided by the rental company.
California law requires a person to be 16 years of age or older and in possession of his/her California Boater Card to legally operate a vessel powered by a motor of 15 hp or more, including personal watercraft (PWCs).
Boating regulations vary by state, so there's no hard answer about how old you have to be to drive a boat. However, states that specify a minimum age generally set it between 12 and 14 — several years lower than the minimum age to get a driver's license.
To rent a jet ski, you must be at least 18 years old; however, 16 and 17-year-olds can drive solo but will require a legal guardian to be present to rent the watercraft and sign liability forms. Children 14 & 15 are allowed to drive the watercraft only with an 18+ on board.
However if you rent a boat, you will not need a license.
All California boaters are required to have a California Boater Card. Boat operators cited without a boater card may receive a fine of up to $100 for the first conviction, $250 for the second, and $500 for the third.
Who Is Exempt From California Boating License Requirements? While most boat operators need a license, there are some exemptions. For example, individuals renting a motorized vessel do not need to have a boating license as long as they complete a rental checklist provided by the rental company.
If the boat/vessel has a trailer, you need to get the trailer title.
California law requires a person to be 16 years of age or older and in possession of his/her California Boater Card to legally operate a vessel powered by a motor of 15 hp or more, including personal watercraft (PWCs).