New Law Requires Those Under 21 to Get a Watercraft Operator Permit

(KNSI) — Starting Tuesday, July 1st, anyone under 21 will need a watercraft operator’s permit to drive a boat, Jet Ski, or Wave Runner in Minnesota.

The permit costs $34.95 and is valid for life. To get one, people must sign up for and pass an online course.

Department of Natural Resources Boating Law Administrator Captain Adam Block explained to KNSI the reasoning behind the new requirement. “Coming out of COVID, we saw a huge influx in watercraft on our waterways and determined that this is probably the easiest way to make the water safer is to get more people educated.”

The law aims to educate young people about safe boating practices and water safety by ensuring they understand the rules before taking control of a watercraft. Unlicensed operators can still drive boats if someone over 21 with a valid permit is onboard and within immediate reach of the controls.

The new requirement builds on Minnesota’s existing approach to outdoor recreation safety. Block acknowledges that change can be challenging but points to the state’s track record with similar programs. “I think change is hard. It’s something new. But we have a strong history in Minnesota about requiring outdoor recreation education. And this is that final piece that the state’s been missing for many years.”

Previously, Minnesota only required boating safety training for children ages 12 to 17. The state already mandates training courses for hunting with firearms and operating off-highway vehicles like ATVs and snowmobiles.

The new law applies to people born after June 30th, 2004, and will gradually expand to cover older age groups over the next few years. The requirement will roll out in phases. Starting now, those under 21, or born after June 30th, 2004, need to get a permit. By 2028, anyone under 41 years of age will need a permit to operate watercraft.

The gradual implementation gives boaters time to adapt while ensuring the system isn’t overwhelmed.

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