Is jet skiing safe for beginners?
Avoid jet skiing in rough waters, especially as a beginner. Life Jackets are a Must: Wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times for safety. Start Slow: Build confidence gradually. Begin with short, slow rides and increase the duration and speed as you get more comfortable. Technically, you could ride a jet ski if you can’t swim, but it is not recommended. While wearing a life jacket can help, it may not save you in strong currents, rough water, or panic situations.Without a life jacket, boaters face a higher risk of drowning, particularly in rough waters or during unexpected accidents. Many boating accidents happen quickly, leaving little time for individuals to react or put on a life jacket.
Can anyone use a jet ski?
Key Safety Rules for Jet Ski Riders In many places, you have to be at least 12 to 16 years old. Other safety guidelines to keep in mind include: Life Jackets: No matter how old you are, you must wear a life jacket to keep you safe if you fall off. Knowing how to drive: Knowing how to control the jet ski is also vital. Age requirements for operating a jet ski vary by state, with most states allowing individuals as young as 12-14 years to drive under specific conditions. Completing a state-approved boating safety course is often required, especially for younger riders, to ensure familiarity with safe operating practices.That said, kids can ride as passengers on jet skis as long as they meet the physical requirements to sit safely behind the operator and hold on securely. Children should be able to sit with feet flat on the deck and hold onto the handlebars or an adult at all times.
Can a 14 year old drive a jet ski in California?
Age and Operator Restrictions California law requires a person to be 16 years of age or older and in possession of his/her California Boater Card to legally operate a vessel powered by a motor of 15 hp or more, including personal watercraft (PWCs). As of January 1, 2025: All boaters, regardless of age, are required by law to carry a California Boater Card.Boating Safety Course (If Applicable) In California, if you’re under 35 years old and plan to operate a motorized vessel (including a jet ski) with a 15-horsepower engine or more, you will need to have completed a boating safety course and obtained a California Boater Card.California law requires a person to be 16 years of age or older and in possession of his/her California Boater Card to legally operate a vessel powered by a motor of 15 hp or more, including personal watercraft (PWCs).Alert: Effective January 1, 2025 – All motorized vessel operators are now required by law to complete a boating safety course and obtain a California Boater Card before heading out on the water.
Do you need a boaters license to rent a jet ski in California?
As of January 1, 2025, all motorized boat operators in California, regardless of age, must possess a California Boater Card. This means if you plan to ride your jet ski or enjoy any boat with a motor, you need a boater card. Applying for a California Boater Card is a simple process. Boaters can complete their application by visiting CaliforniaBoaterCard. The card only costs $10 and lasts a lifetime. Boaters have an option to complete an online, classroom or a home study course.