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Boating License Requirements in Kentucky

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Who Needs a Boating License?

A boating license is not required in the state of Kentucky for any person who is 18 years of age or older. However any person who is 12-17 years of age is required to complete an approved Boating Safety Course and obtain a Boater Education Certificate, commonly called a license, in order to legally operate a motorized boat with an engine of more than 10 horsepower.

A (Boater Education Certificate can be obtained by completing a boating safety course that has been approved by the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources.

Kentucky’s Age and Horsepower Restrictions

Children under 12 years of age are not legally permitted to operate any motorized boat of more than 10 horsepower, including personal watercraft (PWCs).

Persons who are 12-17 years of age may legally operate a boat of more than 10 horsepower only under one of the following circumstances:

They have successfully completed a Boating Safety Course, and are carrying their Boater Education Certificate on the boat.

They are directly supervised by a person who is 18 years of age or older who has obtained a Boater Education Certificate through completion of an approved course.

For more information on boating license requirements, age and horsepower restricitons, and other regulations that may apply on Kentucky state waterways, visit the BOATsmart! Knowkedge base.