Boating Safety Education

Boating operation requirements

Wisconsin boating safety certification or out of state equivalent certification is required for operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1989. Anyone is eligible to take the class and receive a safety education completion certificate; however, courses are designed at a 5th grade level or up.

Who may operate a boat

• 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.
• Anyone 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 Wisconsin 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

• 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 Wisconsin DNR or another state. Adult supervision is not a substitute for a certificate.

Boating Safety Class Search