Boating in Texas offers recreation, sport, and relaxation. But before heading out on a lake or the Gulf, it’s important to understand what the law says about who can legally operate a watercraft. Many serious boating accident cases in Texas involve operators who didn’t meet the required licensing or safety standards. Understanding the law now can help you avoid legal trouble later.
Texas Boating License Laws: Who Must Take the Course?
Texas doesn’t issue a traditional “boating license,” but there are strict education requirements for certain operators. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) rules that people born after September 1, 1993, must complete an approved boater education course in order to legally drive:
- Personal watercraft (like Jet Skis),
- Boats with motors of 15 horsepower or more, or
- Wind-powered vessels longer than 14 feet.
Once completed, the operator receives a Boater Education Card that must be kept with them while boating. This isn’t optional—it’s a requirement under state law.
There are a few exceptions:
- If you’re accompanied on board by a legal adult (18+) who completed the course,
- If you’re operating under direct supervision as part of a formal boating class,
- Or if you’re renting a boat from a facility that gives a TPWD-approved briefing.
Still, even if you aren’t required to take the course, it’s a smart decision. Lack of training is a factor in a large number of boating accident investigations handled by law enforcement and attorneys across the state.
How Boating Education Ties into Accident Liability
The link between boating education and boating accident liability is direct. When a crash occurs on the water, one of the first questions asked is: Did the operator follow Texas boating laws?
Boating accidents often involve:
- Speeding or wake violations,
- Failure to yield right-of-way,
- Operating while distracted or impaired,
- Neglecting lookout responsibilities,
- Not having proper safety gear on board.
If the boater wasn’t certified, that can lead to added penalties and a stronger liability claim from injured parties. In some cases, it even amounts to negligence per se—a legal term that means violating a statute is automatically considered careless behavior.
Alcohol Use and Boating While Intoxicated (BWI)
Texas treats Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) as seriously as driving under the influence. The legal limit is the same: 0.08% blood alcohol content (BAC).
Consequences of a BWI conviction include:
- Fines up to $2,000,
- Jail time up to 180 days,
- Suspension of your driver’s license,
- Enhanced penalties if the boating accident results in injury or death.
Drinking on the water affects judgment, balance, and reaction time, putting everyone at risk. Boating-related deaths occur significantly each year in Texas because of the high frequency of alcohol consumption while boating.
Mandatory Safety Equipment and Registration
It’s not enough to pass a course and carry your card. Texas law also requires certain safety items on every boat:
- One U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket for each person onboard,
- A fire extinguisher (on motorized vessels),
- Proper navigation lights,
- A sound-producing device like a whistle or horn.
Not having these items can lead to citations—and, worse, increase the risk of injury or drowning if a boating accident occurs.
Also, registration is mandatory for all motorized vessels. Operating an unregistered boat may complicate insurance coverage and raise red flags during an accident investigation.
Age Restrictions for Youth Operators
Young boaters face added restrictions. Anyone under 13 years old may not legally operate a motorboat over 15 horsepower unless accompanied by someone:
- At least 18 years old,
- Who completed the required education, and
- Is onboard and able to take control at any moment.
These age-based rules are in place because youth operators are often involved in boating accident reports tied to inexperience and misjudgment.
Know the Reporting Rules After a Boating Accident
Texas law requires you to stop, help others, and report any boating accident that involves:
- A death,
- A missing person,
- Injury needing medical treatment,
- Property damage exceeding $2,000.
Failing to report a qualifying boating accident could lead to criminal charges. Always report the incident to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department within 30 days, or within 48 hours if a death occurred.
Why Compliance Isn’t Optional on Texas Waters
Ignoring license and safety requirements increases your risk, both on the water and in court. A single mistake can lead to criminal penalties, lawsuits, or insurance denials. Most boating accident cases involve preventable errors—violations of simple rules that, if followed, would’ve protected lives and property.
Be Proactive—Not Reactive
Recreational boating should be fun, but legal and safety obligations come first. Don’t wait until a boating accident puts your freedom or finances at risk. Make sure you’re in compliance with all licensing and education requirements. If you’ve been injured in a boating crash—or are facing liability—getting clarity on your rights and responsibilities matters.
Injured in a Boating Accident? Orange Law Is Ready to Help.
Boating crashes can cause serious injury, property loss, and legal fallout. If you’re involved in a boating accident and need to understand your options, Orange Law is here to assist. Our legal team knows Texas boating laws inside and out—and we handle every case with precision and strategy.
Call Orange Law today for a confidential consultation and get the answers you need.
