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Boating requirements · Minnesota
Boating license requirements in Minnesota
Minnesota is phasing in a new boater education law. Beginning July 1, 2025, operators must hold a valid watercraft operator’s permit based on their birth year,…
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Do you need a boating license in Minnesota?
Minnesota is phasing in a new boater education law. Beginning July 1, 2025, operators must hold a valid watercraft operator’s permit based on their birth year, starting with people born after June 30, 2004 and expanding each year through 2028. Longstanding rules also restrict young operators.
Under the law effective July 1, 2025, a valid watercraft operator’s permit is required on a phased schedule: those born after June 30, 2004 beginning July 1, 2025; born after June 30, 2000 beginning July 1, 2026; born after June 30, 1996 beginning July 1, 2027; and born after June 30, 1987 beginning July 1, 2028. People born before July 1, 1987 are not required to have a permit unless renting or serving as an accompanying operator.
Operators under 12 years old may not operate a personal watercraft at all, may not operate a motorboat over 75 horsepower, and may operate a motorboat under 75 horsepower only with an accompanying operator in the boat. Exemptions to the permit law include holders of a U.S. Coast Guard license and non-residents who meet their home state’s requirements and use Minnesota waters fewer than 60 days.
What boating courses are accepted in Minnesota?
To earn a Minnesota watercraft operator’s permit, complete a boater safety course approved by the Minnesota DNR. Approved classroom and online formats cover boating laws, safety equipment, and common on-water situations.
Who regulates boating in Minnesota?
Recreational boating in Minnesota is overseen by Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the authoritative source for current requirements. BoatingClasses.com is an independent directory — not a government or certifying body. Boating laws change, so always confirm current requirements with the official agency before operating a vessel.
Where can Minnesota boaters take a course?
Providers serving Minnesota — featured and top-rated first. Confirm a course is accepted in Minnesota before you enroll.
Mariners Learning System
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Boat-Ed
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Minnesota boating license FAQ
- Do you need a boating license in Minnesota?
- Minnesota issues a watercraft operator’s permit rather than a license. Under a new law, operators must hold the permit based on birth year, phased in from July 1, 2025 (born after June 30, 2004) through 2028.
- When does Minnesota’s new boater education law take effect?
- It begins July 1, 2025 for people born after June 30, 2004, then expands to those born after June 30, 2000 (2026), June 30, 1996 (2027), and June 30, 1987 (2028).
- Who is exempt from Minnesota’s watercraft operator’s permit?
- People born before July 1, 1987 are not required to have a permit unless they are renting or acting as an accompanying operator. U.S. Coast Guard license holders and qualifying short-term non-residents are also exempt.
- Can children operate a boat or jet ski in Minnesota?
- Operators under 12 may not operate a personal watercraft at all, may not operate a motorboat over 75 horsepower, and may operate a smaller motorboat only with an accompanying operator aboard.
- How do I get a Minnesota watercraft operator’s permit?
- Complete a boater safety course approved by the Minnesota DNR, available in classroom and online formats. After passing, you receive the watercraft operator’s permit.
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