Who Can Operate a Boat in Michigan (Legally)?

No one can deny that one of the biggest perks of living in Michigan would be access to the the Great Lakes, and therefore boating and watercraft recreation. Even so, it is important to take part in boating and watercraft operation safely, keeping in mind that every year many people are injured due to boating injuries out on the Lakes.

Do I Need to Take a Boating Education Course in Michigan?

Anyone who was born after June 30, 1996 must take a boater education course. Education is open to everyone, without age restriction, however, and it is highly recommended you take an educational course if you plan to operate any kind of watercraft out on a lake or waterway. The Michigan course is open to people from out of state as well.

Once you pass the course, you receive a Michigan Boating Safety Card or Certificate. This is proof that you successfully completed the educational course. If you were required to take the course, then you should carry it with you if you go boating so that you can show it as proof and provide it upon request if an enforcement officer asks to see it. If you are required to carry it but do not have it on you when asked for it, you could be subject to fines.

Even if you are not required to take the course, many people still take it anyway because it could potentially lower your boating insurance costs.

Age Restrictions on Boating in Michigan

Michigan determines the rules you must meet as a boater, and requirements you must satisfy depending largely on age.

• Born before July 1, 1996: No required boating education, and may boat legally without restrictions
• Born on or after July 1, 1996: may operate a boat legally only if you successfully complete a boating safety education course, and carry the card proving it.
• Persons younger than 12 years old: allowed to operate a boat with maximum 6 horsepower (hp) without restrictions, but may operate a boat between 7 hp and 35 hp only if they pass a boater safety course and carry the card, and have someone who is at least 16-years-old supervising them. Under no circumstances may a child this young operate a boat more powerful than 35 hp.

Age Restrictions on Personal Watercraft Operation in Michigan

Michigan also has rules about who can legally operate personal watercraft (PWC), such as jet skiis, sea-doos, and under what circumstances.

• Born on or before December 31, 1978: may operate a PWC without restriction.
• Born after December 31, 1978 and at least 16-years-old: may legally operate a PWC only if they complete a safety course and carry the card.
• A 14- to 15-year-old: may operate a PWC only if he or she completes a boater safety course, carrying the card to show successful completion AND EITHER is accompanied by an adult or legal guardian (or someone who is at least 21-years-old and designated by the parent or legal guardian) OR is riding no farther away than 100 feet from such a person.
• Younger than 14-years-old: impermissible to operate a PWC under any circumstances.

Sachs Waldman is a Detroit personal injury law firm that has been built upon the foundation of trust and loyalty since the 1920s. Sachs Waldman boating injury and personal injury attorneys will fight for their clients tirelessly to get them the compensation and peace of mind they so very much deserve. Contact our legal office for a free, confidential consultation to assess your case today at (313) 965-3464 or fill out our online form.