Alabama Jet Ski and PWC Rules: Operating Regulations You Need to Know

Certification Requirement

All PWC operators in Alabama must hold a valid Boater Safety Certification—the same credential required for any motorized vessel. There is no separate jet ski license. If you have your Alabama boater card, you are certified to operate a PWC. If not, see whether you need a license to drive a jet ski in Alabama.

PFD Requirements

Every person on a PWC—operator and all passengers—must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD at all times. This is not optional and applies regardless of age, swimming ability, or conditions. Inflatable PFDs are not approved for PWC use. Only inherently buoyant PFDs (Type I, II, III, or appropriate Type V) are acceptable.

Engine Cut-Off Lanyard

Alabama requires the PWC operator to attach the engine shut-off switch lanyard (also called a kill switch lanyard) to their person, clothing, or PFD at all times during operation. If the operator falls off, the lanyard activates the shut-off switch and stops the engine, preventing the PWC from circling unmanned.

Age Restrictions

PWC age rules follow the same structure as general motorized vessel rules in Alabama:

• Under 12: Cannot operate a PWC.
• Ages 12–13: May operate with a valid Boater Safety Certification, but must be supervised by a certified adult at least 21 years old.
• Age 14 and up: May operate independently with a valid Boater Safety Certification.

There is no minimum age to ride as a passenger on a PWC, but the passenger must be able to sit securely and wear a properly fitting PFD.

Hours of Operation

PWC may be operated at all hours, including after sunset, provided the watercraft is equipped with the proper navigation lights required for nighttime operation. However, most recreational PWC use occurs during daylight hours, and operating in the dark introduces significant safety risks due to limited visibility and the speed at which PWC typically travel.

Towing Regulations

If you are using a PWC to tow a water skier, tuber, or wakeboarder:

• The towed person must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD.
• The PWC must be rated by the manufacturer for towing and must have the capacity for the operator, an observer, and the towed person to reboard.
• A competent observer (in addition to the operator) must be on board to watch the towed person.

Reckless Operation

Alabama law specifically prohibits the following PWC behaviors:

• Operating in a reckless or negligent manner.
• Jumping the wake of another vessel within 100 feet of that vessel.
• Operating at an unsafe speed in congested areas or near docks, swim areas, or anchored boats.

Violations are misdemeanors and can lead to fines and certification suspension.