Michigan Teen Boating Rules Explained for Parents

Summer is here and the water is warming up, so Michigan families are getting boats and personal watercraft back on the water. For parents, it’s a good time to understand teen watercraft safety and rules.

Watercraft Michigan Teens Are Allowed to Operate

Photo by <a href= — Photo by DJ Paine on Unsplash

In Michigan, teens can generally operate non-motorized watercraft without restriction, including kayaks, canoes, rowboats, paddleboards, and inflatable rafts. In short, any vessel without a motor is typically allowed.

Just as many teens look forward to transitioning from bicycles to cars during driver’s education, they also often look forward to riding a Jet Ski and hitting the water on local lakes and rivers.

Read More: How to Stop Horse Flies in Michigan Summers

Similar to driver’s education, teens in Michigan must be certified before they can operate motorized watercraft on state waters.

Can Your Child Operate a Watercraft?

In Michigan, teens must have a Boating Safety Certificate to operate motorized boats or personal watercraft (PWC). Those under 14 are not allowed to operate PWCs, while 14- and 15-year-olds may only do so when accompanied by an adult or within 100 feet of one.

At ages 16 and 17, teens in Michigan can operate most boats and personal watercraft if they are properly certified, though specific rules, horsepower limits, and restrictions can vary depending on the type of vessel.

Under 12 years old: May operate a motorboat with up to 6 horsepower without supervision.
Ages 12 to 15: May operate boats up to 6 horsepower without restriction. To operate a boat with more than 6 horsepower, they must have a boating safety certificate and be accompanied by someone who is at least 16 years old.
Ages 16 and older: May operate boats of any size or power, provided they have completed an approved boating safety course.

Get our free mobile app

If your teenager is eager to get out on Michigan waters with a motorized watercraft, they can earn a boating safety certificate through one of three options: classroom instruction, online courses, or interactive online training.

👇BELOW: The 7 Most Important Unwritten Boating Rules👇

The 7 Most Important Unwritten Boating Rules

It’s key to remember that everyone at the lake is there to have a good time. So be a good person, and if you see someone struggling, offer to help or be patient and let them figure it out.

Gallery Credit: Credit N8