Watercraft Age Requirements

The following is a summary of Minnesota’s rules for young boat and watercraft operators.

Boats and Pontoons:

  • Operators less than 12 years of age:
    • 25 hp and less:  No restrictions. This means that any child under the age of 12 years old can operate a boat with 25 hp or less without supervision.
    • 25 – 75 hp: Must have someone at least 21 years old within reach of the controls.
    • Over 75 hp: No operation allowed even with someone 21 years old within reach of the controls.
  • Operators 12 -17 years of age:
    • 25 hp and less: No restrictions.
    • More than 25 hp: Must have either a Watercraft Operator’s Permit or someone at least 21 years old within reach of the controls.
  • To obtain a Watercraft Operator’s Permit:

Personal Watercraft:

For more information from the City of Prior Lake, please visit:      http://www.cityofpriorlake.com/WSUM.php

For the complete Minnesota Boating Regulation Guide: http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/rlp/regulations/boatwater/boatingguide.pdf

Please Enjoy Prior Lake Respectfully and Safely!