New Boating Law Requires Minnesotans Under 21 to Get a Permit Before Hitting the Water

(KNSI) – In an attempt to make the waters safer in Minnesota, a new rule bars anyone under 21 from driving a boat alone or a jet ski without a watercraft operator’s permit.

According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the law is designed to teach young people about using a boat and the water’s dangers by ensuring they know the rules and are properly trained. This means people born after June 30, 2004, will need a license to operate a boat. The cost is $34.95. The permit is good for life and doesn’t need to be renewed.

To get a boating license, people must sign up, study and pass the online course.

Anyone without a permit can still drive a boat, but only if someone onboard is over 21, within immediate reach of the controls, has a valid operator’s permit, or is old enough to be exempt from the rule.

The requirement will gradually apply to older age groups over the next few years. For example, on July 1st, 2026, an operator must be born before June 30th, 2004, to drive without a permit. In July 2027, they must have been born before June 30th, 2000; on July 1st of, 2028, a permit is required for anyone born after June 30th, 1987.

For a complete list of rules, click here. To sign up for the online course, click here.

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