Renting a jet ski in Ft. Lauderdale is a blast. Some of the key questions that are often asked by the general public at most boat rental businesses in South Florida are: how old do I have to be to rent a jet ski? And do I need a special license to rent a boat?  Here is what the boating law in Florida says on these issues: 

  • A person must be at least 14 years of age to operate a personal watercraft in Florida.
  • A person must be at least 18 years of age to rent a personal watercraft in Florida.
  • It is unlawful for a person to knowingly allow a person under 14 years of age to operate a personal watercraft (a second-degree misdemeanor).
  • Anyone 21 years of age or younger is required to either have successfully completed a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) approved boating education course or have passed a course equivalency or temporary certificate examination and have in their possession a boating education ID card and a photo identification card before operating a vessel with a motor of 10 HP or more in Florida.  Identification cards for persons completing the course or the equivalency exam are good for a lifetime.  Temporary Certificate exams are made available to the public through contractors.  The temporary certificate is valid for 12 months from the issue date.
  • Remember that a personal watercraft includes boats, jet skis, wave runners, etc.

    To read all the rules & regulations for boating in Florida click here>>     myFWC.com

    Many boat and jet ski rental companies are “contractors” so they are able to administer the exam and issue certificates right there at their boat & personal watercraft rental locations. It is best to call in advance and ask the jet ski rental & boat rental businesses if they can issue the boat safety ID card at there location before going to rent there without one.

    You will find some of the most excellent jet ski & boat rental companies in the links at the left of the pages here on Ft Lauderdale Boating.com Scroll down the list at the left and click on either Ft Lauderdale boat rentals or Ft Lauderdale jet ski rentals to find your favorite rental company.

    Please be safe and itelligent and have a wonderful time on the water, and take the whole family. Keep the lines tight and get in tune. Fair Winds & Following Seas.

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    2 Comments on Do You Know the Laws Required to Rent a Jet Ski or Boat in Florida?

    1. Michael says:

      Aye El Capitan, the information in your post was helpful. 14 to operate and 18 to rent. Time to hit the water!

    2. Ebin says:

      Hi,
      Great laws in Florida. helpful post

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