Is It Legal For a Teenager to Drive a Boat in Texas?

For many boat owners in Austin, TX, taking to the water is a family affair. Children are taught how to drive the family boat long before they are able to drive the family car. The agents at The Policy Source offer families with boats, insurance coverage they can count on to protect themselves from different types of financial loss. They can also answer questions about who can legally operate the boat and who is eligible to be covered by the boat insurance policy.

Age Requirements

In the state of Texas, children under the age of 13 can operate the family boat if they have someone over the age of 18 with them. If they are over the age of 13 and have completed the required Boater Education Course, they can drive the boat on their own as long as it is powered by a motor with less than 15 horsepower.

Boater Education Course

It is recommended that any person who is going to be operating a motorized watercraft take a Boater Education Course that is approved by the state of Texas. This ensures that the operator understands the laws that are used to keep everyone on the lake safe and that they know how to operate their own personal watercraft.

Residents of Austin, TX are encouraged to contact an agent at The Policy Source if they ever have any questions about boating safety or the laws concerning the age requirement for teenagers. The agents have the information you need and can help you find a Boater Education Course that is approved by the state of Texas. Call and talk to an agent today!