What’s required for boating in Florida? Curious305’s guide to moving across the water
Editor’s Note: This article was inspired by a question submitted from Miami Herald reader Chris Ramirez through Curious305, our community-powered reporting series that solicits questions from readers about Miami-Dade, Broward, the Florida Keys and the rest of the Sunshine State. Submit your question here or scroll down to fill out our form.
Hey, Curious305: What exactly is required for boating? Renting or even buying one? Legislation on it is tough to research and it’s vague.
With all this water around us, boating is popular in South Florida, of course. But it’s also a pleasure regulated by the state.
The laws in Florida can be difficult to break down. Here’s a guide to boating requirements in Florida:
What boating certifications does Florida require?
Florida doesn’t require boating licenses, but there are other requirements before heading onto the water.
You must pass an approved boater safety course, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission — that is if you were born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, and want to operate a boat powered by 10 horsepower or more.
After passing the course, you will be eligible for a Florida boating safety education identification card.
READ MORE: Do boats have capacity limits? Are life jackets required? What to know about safety
What is the age limit to drive a boat?
In Florida, anyone older than 14 can operate a boat, according to the FWC. But you can’t rent one if you’re under 18.
Allowing someone under 14 to drive a boat is a second-degree misdemeanor, which can mean up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
What do I need before a day on the water?
Plan ahead before leaving the dock. A photo ID and Florida boating safety ID should be on the top of your packing list because an officer can ask for your documents at any time.
But you can be behind the wheel without completing the safety course. There’s no issue with you driving without the boating safety ID if you’re on a private lake or accompanied by someone who has a valid boating safety ID, for example.
What if I want to rent a boat?
According to Florida law, all renters must have a boating safety ID or an equivalent certification. If you plan to rent a boat for a getaway and don’t have time, you may qualify for the temporary certificate program.
The certificate, which is valid for 90 days, is obtained after the prospective boater passes a 25-question knowledge check. Rental companies have the right to inspect the certificate, which should be brought on the outing with the person renting the boat.
Before the renter takes off on the water, the rental facility must also familiarize the renter with the boat, right-of-way laws and local waterway characteristics.
READ MORE: How do boaters avoid hazards? What to know about markers, buoys and other warning signs
This story was originally published November 2, 2022 at 6:00 AM.
