Minnesota does not require a boating license for boaters, but requires a Watercraft Operator's Permit for boaters between 12-17 years of age who wish to operate a personal watercraft. The regulatory authority for the card is Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

There are age restrictions on vessel operation. A boat under 25 horsepower can be operated by anyone under the age of 12 without restrictions. A boat between 25 to 75 horsepower may be operated by a person under the age of 12 provided they are under the direct supervision of someone above the age of 21 who is within reach of the controls. Any boat above 75 horsepower cannot be operated by anyone under the age of 12. Persons between the ages of 12-17 can operate a boat provided they possess a watercraft operator's permit or if they are under the supervision of someone above the age of 21 who is within reach of the controls.

The boating laws of the state require that the person operating a boat should not be under the influence of intoxicants. The legal limit of the blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% and if arrested for a higher BAC, harsh penalties may be imposed on the operator, based on the severity of the offense as well as the previous number of such convictions.

EXEMPTIONS

The following persons are exempt from the above requirements:

• Boat operators temporarily using Minnesota waters and who have a valid boater's license issued by their state of residence.

BOATER EDUCATION COURSE

To obtain the Boater Education permit, you must complete a boater education course approved by the Minnesota, or pass an approved equivalency test. This course is mandatory for those between 12 and 17 wishing to operate a boat. Adults may also complete this course and obtain the permit if they wish to learn about boating safety.

In an approved course, students learn how to operate and maintain their boats, the legal requirements for boating, and what to do in emergencies. This ensures that boating remains a safe and fun experience.

There are various approved ways you can complete the course and obtain the card:

1. Classroom options are offered by Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the US Power Squadrons, US Coast Guard Auxiliary, Red Cross and local school districts, which provide both free as well as low cost boat education and publications.
   • The course duration is a minimum of eight hours.
2. The Boater Education Card is either handed out at the end of class, or mailed to you within 45 days.
3. Only the card issued after a classroom course is recognized in most other states, and by many insurance companies for insurance discounts.
4. An approved online options offered by Boat Minnesota.
5. This course may take up to 8 hours to complete; some options require you to complete the course in one sitting.
6. Course materials are free. Some providers charge a fee for exams or the card: check providers' websites for details.
7. A temporary card may be printed after passing the online exam; the permanent card will be mailed to you within 45 days.
8. The option of home-study using approved course material of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and passing a proctored exam.

RENEWAL

The card is permanent. There is no need to renew it.

REPLACEMENT

To replace a card, contact the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources with proof of course completion. Students who took the exam online may obtain a duplicate card by contacting their providers, and for a fee - check the providers' websites for details.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• While liability insurance is not mandatory for boating in Minnesota, it is a good idea to have liability insurance to tide over troubles if you or someone operating your boat is involved in a boating accident.
• Read the Minnesota Boating Guide.
• See how to register your boat in Minnesota.
• Check the contact information of Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.