How Old Do You Have to Be to Drive a Jet Ski in Florida?

In Florida, the law requires that a person must be at least 14 years old to operate a jet ski and 18 years old to rent one. This means that if you’re planning for a tour in this area, you need to ensure you meet the age and be aware about regulation set by the state of Florida.

Though, there are other regulation set by Florida local commission but only two regulation are commonly known. In this article, we will discuss other regulation that are part of law for jet skiing in Florida.

Operation Standards

1. No owner should allow any underage rider (Under 14) to operate personal watercraft. If found, they shall be considered under second-degree wrong doing crimimal penalties.
2. Inflatable Pfd’s are prohibited in state of Florida. Any person riding or operating or being towed behind is compulsory require Non-Inflatable Type I,II,III or V Pfd that is approved by law. 
3. The use of an engine cutoff switch lanyard is required whether it is connect to operator’s cloth, PFD or person itself. This lanyard stops the engine if the operator falls off, improving safety.
4. Doing weaving through congested vessel traffic or avoiding collision at last moment or jumping through other vessels. Such actions can be classified as reckless operation, and are treated at first degree wrong-doing in Florida. 
5. Any PWC can operate from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset. No personal watercraft are allowed after operating hours on Florida water.
6. Boating accidents should be reported to the U.S. Coast Guard if they involve injury, death, or significant property damage. 
7. Individual born after on or after January 1, 1988 must complete a NASBLA-approved boating education course, or pass a equivalent course or obtain temporary certificate.
8. In Florida, it is mandatory to carry boating education ID card, photo ID while operating a vessel or PWC. Such ID are valid for life, while temporary certificates are valid for 12 months from the issue date.

Exemptions from the Licensing Requirement:

• Operator is exempted from the licence if they are licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard as a master of a vessel.
• Licence is exempted if operator is operating in a private lake or pond.
• License is not required if rider is accompanied by an exempt person or someone 18+ with proper ID.
• Newly purchase(within 90 days of purchase) having bill of sale document on board is exempted from licence.

FAQ’s

Do I need a license to drive a jet ski in Florida?

Yes, you need a boating education id card to operate a jet ski on Florida water. This requirement applies to anyone born on or after January 1, 1988. Though there are exemption, which are already mentioned in this blog post.

How much is a jet ski license in Florida?

The cost of obtaining a boating education id card can vary. Some boating safety courses are available for free, while others may charge a fee. The total cost depends on the specific course you choose and whether it includes any additional materials or resources.

Who is exempt from a Florida boating license?

Individuals born before January 1, 1988, are exempt from needing a boating education card. Additionally, those who are accompanied by someone who holds a NASBLA-approved card or was born before this date are also exempt.