Minnesota requires some adults and youth who operate motorboats and personal watercrafts (including jet skis) to have a valid watercraft operator’s permit. This law applies to “adult operators” and any person over the age of twelve is considered an adult operator unless you are exempt from the permit requirement. To determine whether you fall into the category of exempt boaters, check out the Minnesota Revisor’s Office website or click here. Those who wish to rent a motorboat or personal watercraft are required to have an operator’s permit without exceptions.
In addition to the permit requirement operators under the age of twelve will be prohibited from operating motorboats or personal watercrafts over 75 horsepower. Motorboats and personal watercrafts under 75 horsepower may still be operated by younger boaters but they are required to be supervised by an accompanying operator who is 21 years of age or older, who is on the personal watercraft or motorboat, is within immediate reach of the controls of the motor, and possesses a valid operator’s permit.
Speaking of boating safety, a BWI (boating while intoxicated) is similar to its dry land counterpart, a DWI. BWI’s carry similar penalties and can result in a suspended license, hefty fines, or jail time. So, make sure to find a designated sober boater. If not, give us a call!
Stay safe, have fun, and remember to get those boating licenses before heading out!