Published 07/26/2005 03:56 PM
| Updated 06/11/2012 04:46 PM
Do I need a boating license or
boating safety certificate to operate a boat or personal watercraft (PWC) in
Florida?
Anyone born on or after January 1,
1988 is required to have a boating safety education ID card along with a photo
ID while operating a vessel with a motor 10 horsepower or greater in Florida
waters. This includes personal water craft (PWC). Persons under age
14 may not operate a PWC.
The type of card you need depends on whether you are a resident of Florida or not. If you are a Florida resident, you can take an 8-hour classroom or internet course and get a "lifetime" ID card. If you are just visiting, you may prefer to take a temporary certificate exam that is good for 12 months. Everyone is encouraged to take one of these courses to become familiar with Florida's boating laws and regulations.
The type of card you need depends on whether you are a resident of Florida or not. If you are a Florida resident, you can take an 8-hour classroom or internet course and get a "lifetime" ID card. If you are just visiting, you may prefer to take a temporary certificate exam that is good for 12 months. Everyone is encouraged to take one of these courses to become familiar with Florida's boating laws and regulations.
