Everything You Need to Know About Getting Your Watercraft License

Most people look at a watercraft and see only a fun toy for riding the waves. However, these machines are subject to the same rules and regulations as their larger counterparts.

If you’ve been looking at watercrafts for sale or are getting ready to take yours out of storage, remember to get your watercraft license ready. Here are a few tips that will get you set for shoreline shenanigans.

For Safety’s Sake

Do you need a license to ride a jet ski? Yes, in many cases you’ll need your boating license, even though there are no set courses for operating a watercraft.

Before buying that attractive sea doo for sale, check with your state offices to determine if a license is actually required. In some states, if your watercraft is small enough or has lower horsepower it’s not even a strict requirement.

Not Just For You

The reason many states require watercraft operators to obtain their boating license isn’t necessarily because vehicles like kawasaki watercrafts are difficult to operate. It’s really for your safety and the others on the water.

Because you’ll be sharing the waves with much larger craft, it’s important each rider understands how these vehicles react and what their standard operating procedures are. Knowing what lights mean and typical course changes can keep you and your watercraft out of harm's way.

Certificate of Authenticity

For the states that don’t directly require you to have a license, they’ll at least enforce having a boating certificate. These are simply documents that attest to your taking the specified boating course.

These papers must be kept with you whenever you operate your watercraft. Check with your personal watercraft dealer to set up boating course attendance to get you and your loved ones ready for the ride.

If you need an entire license or just a certificate, make sure you’re fully prepared before taking to the water. The next time you’re shopping for a top-notch watercraft, make sure boating safety is foremost in your mind!