California Boating Laws

Who Can Operate a Boat

In California, the ability to operate a boat depends on the operator’s age and the type of vessel:

• Operators aged 16 and above: Can operate vessels powered by motors of 15 horsepower or more, including personal watercraft (PWC), if they have a valid California Boater Card.
• Operators aged 12 to 15: May operate vessels with 15 horsepower or more if supervised by someone at least 18 years old with a California Boater Card.
• Operators under 12: Cannot operate vessels powered by engines of 15 horsepower or more but may operate sailboats under 30 feet or non-motorized vessels.

Education Requirements

California requires all motorized vessel operators to obtain a California Boater Card, which proves they completed a state-approved boating safety course. This requirement is being phased in based on age, and by January 1, 2025, it will apply to all boaters.

Registration & Titling Requirements

Most motorized boats and sailboats over eight feet must be registered with the California DMV. Exemptions include:

• Non-motorized canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
• Boats registered in another state if used in California for less than 90 days.

Registration provides a Certificate of Number and validation stickers, which must be displayed on the boat.

Required Safety Equipment

Boats in California must carry specific safety equipment:

• Life Jackets: A U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each passenger. Boats 16 feet or longer must also carry a throwable device.
• Fire Extinguishers: Required for boats with enclosed fuel or engine compartments.
• Sound-Producing Devices: Boats under 39 feet need a whistle or horn; larger boats require a bell in addition.
• Navigation Lights: Required for operation between sunset and sunrise.

Lifejacket Laws

California requires life jackets in the following situations:

• Children under 13 must wear a life jacket on a moving boat.
• Life jackets are mandatory for personal watercraft (PWC) operators and passengers.
• Anyone being towed behind a vessel must wear a life jacket.

Special Laws for Personal Watercraft (PWC)

PWCs, such as Jet Skis, are subject to additional regulations:

• All riders must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
• The operator must have a safety lanyard attached to the ignition.
• PWCs cannot operate between sunset and sunrise.
• Reckless operation, such as wake jumping within 100 feet of another vessel, is illegal.

Special Laws for Towed Water Sports

Regulations for water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing include:

• All persons being towed must wear a life jacket.
• Boats towing skiers or wakeboarders must have an observer in addition to the operator.
• Towing is prohibited between sunset and sunrise.

Environmental Laws

California enforces strict environmental regulations to protect waterways:

• Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS): Boaters must clean, drain, and dry their vessels to prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Waste Disposal: Dumping waste or hazardous materials into state waters is illegal.
• Oil and Fuel Spills: Spilling fuel or oil must be reported to the California Office of Spill Prevention and Response.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a license to operate a boat in California?

While there is no traditional “boating license,” a California Boater Card is required for most motorized boat operators.

How do I register my boat in California?

Boats must be registered with the California DMV. You’ll need to provide proof of ownership and pay applicable fees.

What are the penalties for boating under the influence (BUI)?

Operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and can result in fines, jail time, and loss of boating privileges.

Where can I take a boating safety course?

You can take a state-approved boating safety course through Recademics.