Do you need a license to drive a jet ski in CA?
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 must have a California Boater Card to operate a motorized vessel on state waterways. The law requiring this card began in 2018 and has been phased in by age group ever since. Now, card requirements apply to all boaters aged 16 and older.The California Boating Card is a lifetime card with a one time fee of $10 that can be obtained after completing an approved boater safety education course. The California Boating Card requirement began phasing in on January 1, 2018, with different age groups required to obtain a card each year.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.california boating law requires that all boats 16 feet or more in length, except canoes and kayaks must carry one wearable life jacket (type i, ii, iii or v) for each person on board and one throwable (type iv) device in each boat. Pfds must be readily accessible.
Who is exempt from a California boating license in California?
Anyone operating a commercial vessel with a valid maritime, commercial fishing license, or Coast Guard license. Government personnel operating watercraft for official duties, like rescue or law enforcement. Young boaters under the age of 18, while supervised by an adult who has a valid 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).A person who is a resident of a state other than California who is temporarily operating a vessel in California for less than 60 days and meets the boating requirements, if any, of his/her state.
How much does a boating license cost in CA?
The steps required to get your California Boater Card are as follows: Pay the one-time fee of $39. Study the California Boaters Safety Course and pass the final exam. Download your Certificate of Completion. The lifetime card fee is $10. The lost card replacement fee is $5. The card is issued by the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW).
Can you have beer on a boat in California?
According to the California State Parks website, it is not illegal for you or your passengers to drink alcohol on a boat while out on the lake, river, ocean or other body of water. If you’re simply along for the ride and won’t be needed to drive the boat – and you don’t plan to engage in watersports, like waterskiing or jetskiing during your day on the water – it is not illegal to drink on a boat.However, it is illegal to operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol (i. This applies to all motorized vessels, from fishing boats and yachts to jet skis and water skis. Self-propelled boats (i.
Do I need a boaters license in California?
As of January 1, 2025: All boaters, regardless of age, are required by law to carry a California Boater Card. California Boater Card Requirements in 2025 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.To rent a boat in California, you’ll need to be at least 21 years old and present a valid government-issued photo ID. No boating license is required for most rentals, but we always recommend getting a California Boater Card if you plan to spend a lot of time on the water.
What are the new boating laws in California 2025?
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. Once issued, the card remains valid for a boat operator’s lifetime. You may obtain a California Boater Card at any time and don’t have to wait until it is required for your age group. Boaters who plan on instructing boating to a non-card holder must also have a Boater Card.The course materials also include a 60-question exam. Participants who receive a passing score of at least 80 percent will receive a certificate of completion. Individuals who take and pass the course beginning will be eligible to apply for the California Boater Card.