How Old Do You Have to Be to Drive a Boat in Texas?

Minimum Age to Operate a Boat or Jet Ski in Texas

• Under 13 years old:
  You cannot legally operate a boat with more than 15 horsepower or a PWC, even with adult supervision.
• Ages 13–17:
  You can operate these vessels if you have completed a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD)-approved boater education course.
  Otherwise, you must be accompanied by someone 18 or older who is legally allowed to operate the vessel and can take immediate control if needed.
• Age 18 and older:
  You can operate a boat or PWC without restriction, although completing a boater education course is still strongly recommended and required for operators born after Sept. 1, 1993.

Boater Education Is Key for Teens

If you’re between 13 and 17 years old, you must complete a boater safety course before operating a motorboat or PWC on your own.

This course teaches essential safety topics like:

• Navigational rules
• Emergency preparedness
• Texas-specific boating laws
• Environmental protection

Once completed, you’ll receive a Boater Education Certificate, which is valid for life.

Take the Course with Recademics

Recademics offers a TPWD-approved boater education course that’s perfect for Texas teens and first-time boaters. It’s completely online, self-paced, and packed with interactive videos and real-world scenarios to help you boat safely and confidently.

Why choose Recademics?

• Official TPWD and NASBLA approval
• Engaging, easy-to-follow lessons
• Lifetime valid certificate
• Mobile-friendly platform
• Just $29.99 + $10 TPWD fee

Start your Texas Boater Education Course now

Summary: Age Requirements at a Glance

Age	Can You Drive a Boat/PWC?	Education Required?
Under 13	Not allowed	N/A
13–17	Yes, if certified or accompanied by a certified adult. No, if not certified or not accompanied by a certified adult.	TPWD-approved course required
18+	Yes	Required if born after 9/1/93

Can 13-Year-Olds Operate Any Type of Boat?

Not quite. While 13- to 17-year-olds can legally operate boats and personal watercraft after completing a TPWD-approved course, it’s important to be realistic about their readiness.

For example:

• A small fishing boat or jon boat is a good starter vessel.

• A jet ski or pontoon boat may be appropriate with extra supervision.

• Large, fast boats or vessels with complex controls should be reserved for experienced adults.

Parents should consider their teen’s maturity, comfort level, and ability to follow instructions before handing over the wheel—certified or not.

What Happens If You Break the Rules?

Boating without meeting Texas’ legal age or certification requirements can result in more than just a slap on the wrist. Operators caught violating these laws may face fines, citations, or removal from the water by game wardens or marine patrol officers. If you’re renting a boat, most rental companies will require proof of certification—and they can refuse service if it’s not provided.

Beyond legal consequences, ignoring the rules increases the risk of accidents. The TPWD reports that many boating incidents involve inexperienced or improperly trained operators. Taking the requirements seriously helps ensure your safety and the safety of others on the water.

Tips for Parents Teaching Teens to Boat Safely

If your child is just reaching the minimum age to drive a boat (13), it’s smart to approach boating as a family learning experience. Start by completing the boater education course together, then take a few practice runs where you supervise from the passenger seat.

Here are some tips for success:

• Model good habits: Always wear a life jacket, obey speed limits, and follow navigation rules.

• Start with calm water: Choose a quiet lake or low-traffic area for practice.

• Go over emergency procedures: Teach your teen how to respond if someone falls overboard, if the motor stalls, or if bad weather rolls in.

Final Thoughts

To drive a boat or jet ski in Texas, you must be at least 13 years old and certified through a TPWD-approved course like the one offered by Recademics. If you’re under 13, you’ll need to enjoy the ride as a passenger with a responsible adult at the helm.

Know the law. Get certified. And enjoy the water responsibly.

Click here to take the official Texas boating course with Recademics