How long must someone under 17 have a safe boater license to operate a personal watercraft?

The requirement for someone under 17 to possess a safe boater license to operate a personal watercraft is that they must hold this license until they reach the age of 17. This regulation is in place to ensure that young operators have the necessary training and knowledge to handle personal watercraft safely, promoting both personal safety and the safety of those around them.

In many jurisdictions, regulations are designed to progressively introduce younger individuals to boating responsibilities while also imposing age restrictions to mitigate the risks associated with operating these powerful vehicles. By ensuring that a person under the age of 17 has a valid safe boater license until they are 17, it reinforces that only those who have demonstrated the necessary skills and awareness through training can operate personal watercraft, emphasizing the importance of safety in boating activities.