Who may operate a motorboat?

• No one under the age of 10.
• Children 10 years of age but less than 16 if accompanied in the boat by a parent or guardian or a person at least 18 years of age designated by a parent or guardian.
• Persons at least 12 years of age may operate a motorboat if they have successfully completed a DNR prescribed boating safety course and possess a boating safety certificate issued by the WI DNR or another state.

There are no age requirements for operating a boat that is not equipped with a motor.

Who may operate a personal watercraft?

While personal watercraft (PWC) are motorboats, there are additional age restrictions on their operation:

• No one under the age of 12 may operate, lease or rent a personal watercraft.
• No one under the age of 16 may rent or lease a personal watercraft.
• Children at least 12 years of age may operate a personal watercraft if they have successfully completed DNR prescribed boating safety course and possess a boating safety certificate issued by the WI DNR or another state. Adult supervision is not a substitute for a certificate.

Who is Eligible/Required to Take a Boating Education Class?

Wisconsin boating safety certification or out of state equivalent certification is required for operators born on or after January 1, 1989 and who are at least 16 years of age. Operators 12 to 15 years of age must either have a boating safety certificate or have an adult on board while operating. Anyone 10 years of age or older is eligible to take the class and receive a safety education completion certificate. The certificate does not become valid until the child reaches 12 years of age. (read the boating regulations for full details)