Indiana Jet Ski License:
Do You Need a License to Drive a Jet Ski?

If you’re planning to ride a jet ski in Indiana, you absolutely need to know the rules before you launch. Indiana ties legal operation to your driver’s license status and age:

• If you have a valid driver’s license: you may operate a motorboat or PWC (>10 hp) on Indiana public waters. 
  
  

• If you’re 15 and don’t have a driver’s license: you may operate a motorboat or PWC only if you (1) complete a DNR-approved boater education course and (2) carry an Indiana BMV identification card on board. Under age 15 may not operate a >10 hp motorboat or any PWC. 
  
  

Indiana’s approach is designed to keep riders safe and accountable while giving teens a path to legal operation through education.

How to Get Legal to Operate a Jet Ski in Indiana

Option A: Hold a valid driver’s license

Adults and teens (16+) with a valid driver’s license meet Indiana’s operator credential requirement for personal watercraft (PWC). Keep your license with you on the water. 

Option B: You’re 15+ without a driver’s license

You must complete an Indiana DNR-approved boater education course and carry an Indiana BMV identification card. 

• The Indiana DNR approves online and classroom options

• After passing an online course, you can print a temporary certificate while your permanent credential is processed. 

What If You Ride Without a Jet Ski License?

Operating in violation of Indiana’s license/education rules is a Class C infraction; penalties can include fines, and violations can add points to your driver’s license for certain boating offenses. 

Law enforcement may stop you to check compliance with state and federal law. Always be ready to present your driver’s license or (for 15-year-olds) your BMV ID and proof of education. 

Exceptions & Special Situations

• Liveries (rentals): Indiana has no specific state livery regulations, but rented boats must meet liability insurance and required equipment rules; renters must still satisfy operator-age/credential requirements. Always confirm with the rental company. 

Key Jet Ski (PWC) Rules You Should Know in Indiana

PFDs:

• Everyone on a PWC must wear a USCG-approved wearable life jacket. 

Engine Cut-Off Switch (ECOS):

• PWCs must have an ECOS. If equipped with an ECOS, the lanyard must be attached to the operator. 

Night operation:

• It’s strongly recommended to operate PWCs in daylight only. If you operate at night, your PWC must have proper navigation lights and visual distress signals just like other small vessels.

Prohibited maneuvers / reckless operation:

• Indiana prohibits wake-jumping another vessel’s wake, weaving through congested traffic, cutting between a vessel and a person being towed, and similar reckless PWC behaviors. Violations can result in citations and points. 

Towing on a PWC:

• To tow on a PWC, the craft must be ≥9 ft, rated for at least 3 people, and you must have an observer in addition to the operator; don’t exceed capacity.

PWC Registration & Decals

All motorized watercraft (including PWCs) operated on Indiana public waters must be registered with the Indiana BMV and carry the certificate of registration on board and display decals properly.

Is Insurance Required to Ride a Jet Ski in Indiana?

For private recreational boaters, Indiana does not mandate liability insurance statewide. (Marinas or lenders may require it; boats carrying passengers for hire must carry specified marine liability coverage.) 

FAQs

Do I need a “boating license” to ride a jet ski in Indiana?

Indiana uses your driver’s license as the primary credential. If you’re 15 without a driver’s license, you need a DNR-approved boater education course + BMV ID.

Where can I take an Indiana-approved course?

You can take an Indiana-approved jet ski license course (boater education) through Recademics.com

Bottom Line

To operate a jet ski legally in Indiana:

• Driver’s license = you’re good to go.

• Fifteen and no driver’s license = complete a DNR-approved boater education course and carry an Indiana BMV ID.

• Under 15 = you cannot operate a PWC.
  Always wear a USCG-approved PFD, attach your ECOS lanyard, follow speed/lighting rules, and register your PWC with the BMV. Doing it right keeps you safe—and keeps Indiana’s waters fun for everyone.