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Wisconsin’s Boating License Requirements

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Who needs a Boating License in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin’s boating license requirement (boater education requirements), state that any person born after January 1st, 1989, and who is 16 years of age or older, may operate a motorized boat on state waterways if that person holds a valid Boating Safety Certificate, commonly called a boating license. The Certificate must be carried on board during boat operation.

The Certificate may be obtained by completing a Boating Safety Course that has been approved by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR). Once obtained, the certification is good for life.

Wisconsin’s Boating License Exemptions:

  • Anyone born before January 1, 1989.

Wisconsin’s Age and Horsepower Restrictions

  • A person under 10 years of age may not operate a motorized boat under any conditions.
  • A person 10 or 11 years of age may operate a motorized boat only if accompanied by a parent, a guardian, or a person at least 18 years old who is designated by the parent or guardian to supervise.
  • A person 12-15 years of age may operate a motorized boat if they are accompanied by a parent, a guardian, or a person who is at least 18 years old who is designated by the parent or guardian or they have completed a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR)-approved Boating Safety Course.
  • A person who is 16 years of age may operate a motorized boat so long as they have completed a WDNR-approved Boating Safety Course.

Personal Watercraft (PWC) Age Restrictions:

  • No person under 12 years of age may operate a PWC.
  • No person who is 12 years of age or older but under 16 years of age may operate a PWC unless he or she is in possession of a valid Boating Safety Certificate.
  • Individuals under the age of 16 are not permitted to rent PWCs.