California. Boat rental businesses in California must register with the state's Department of Boating and Waterways prior to operating within the state's waterways. All each rental boat used for recreational purposes must also be registered with the department as well.
Do I need insurance when I rent a boat? Only a few states require boat insurance. Whether or not you're required to carry insurance for a boat rental may depend on whom you're renting from. Boat rental companies and marinas that offer boat rentals may mandate boat liability coverage or some form of boat insurance.