Boating Laws in Texas: What You Must Know in 2025

Texas enforces boating laws to protect lives, promote responsible operation, and preserve its waterways. With thousands of boaters on its lakes, rivers, and coast, regulations help prevent accidents, reduce risks, and ensure everyone’s safety. These laws set clear standards for education, vessel safety, and environmental responsibility.

By following these rules, boaters contribute to safer waters, minimize hazards, and help maintain Texas’ rich boating culture for generations to come.

Who May Operate a Boat in Texas?

Texas sets clear guidelines about boat operation based on age and education requirements. Kids under 13 cannot operate a vessel alone. They can only operate boats when someone who is at least 18 years old and qualified to operate the watercraft supervises them directly.

Age Restrictions for Operating a Boat

You need to be at least 13 years old to independently operate a boat in Texas. Teens between 13 and 17 years must finish a boater education course or have a qualified adult supervise them. This rule applies to all vessels to ensure safety and responsible operation.

Texas Boater Education Requirements

The state requires boater education certification for certain groups. People born on or after September 1, 1993, must complete a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) approved boater education course to operate:

• Vessels with motors exceeding 15 horsepower
• Wind-blown vessels over 14 feet in length
• Any personal watercraft (PWC)

Getting certified requires passing an approved boater education course that takes about three hours. Operators must carry their picture ID and boater certification card while operating vessels. The Texas Boating Safety Education Certificate lasts a lifetime and doesn’t need renewal.

Vessel Registration & Titling

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department manages vessel registration and titling requirements for watercraft on public waters. Vessel registration stays valid for two years.

Required Safety Equipment

Safety equipment rules are the foundations of Texas boating regulations. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department requires specific safety gear on all vessels that operate in public waters.

Safe Operating Regulations

Texas boating laws establish strict navigation and safety protocols for watercraft operators. The Texas Water Safety Act requires vessel operators to maintain reasonable speed and take actions to prevent collisions.

Personal Watercraft (PWC) Specific Regulations

Personal watercraft are vessels designed for operation by persons sitting, standing, or kneeling ON rather than IN the vessel. These vessels must follow distinct regulations in Texas waters.

Environmental Regulations

Texas boating regulations prioritize environmental protection. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department strictly enforces measures that protect state waters from harmful effects.

Enforcement and Penalties

Law enforcement officials in Texas keep a close watch on boating activities through their network of authorities. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Law Enforcement Division guides these efforts and works among certified Marine Safety Enforcement Officers.

Conclusion

Texas boating laws provide detailed guidelines that protect boat operators and waterways. These rules require certification, safety protocols, and measures to protect the environment.