All About New York Watercraft Laws and Licensing [2025 Updates]
If you plan to boat on New York's waterways, it's vital to understand the rules and regulations you'll have to follow. Knowing New York watercraft laws reduces your risk of fines and legal considerations and can also help keep you and your passengers safer.
Understanding the laws brings confidence, from knowing how many fire extinguishers and life jackets you need to navigating specific areas and being prepared for emergencies.
Here's what to know about New York's boating laws, including the latest boating license requirement updates for 2025. (Hint: if you don't have a boating license, you'll need one before hitting the water this year).
An Overview of the Boating Laws in New York
Let's take a look at some important requirements to keep in mind when enjoying New York's waterways!
The 2025 Boater Safety Certificate Requirement
As part of "Brianna's Law" — legislation put into place in 2019 in New York — boaters are required to take a boater education course. The process began as a phased-in model in 2020, gradually requiring various groups of boaters to get their licenses based on birth years.
2025 is the final year of the phased-in approach, meaning everyone operating a motorized vessel in New York must have a valid Boater Safety Certificate, also known as a boating "license."
If you don't yet have your certificate, you can complete a course online (like the one we offer here through BOATERexam) to ensure you comply with local laws. The course you take must be through a provider approved by the state (like BOATERexam).
Life Jacket Rules
Aside from a boater certificate, every person onboard your vessel must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
- Children under 12 must always wear their life jackets on a boat under 21 feet.
- Passengers over 12 and those on vessels over 21 feet can wear a life jacket at their discretion.
However, life jackets still need to be available and accessible to everyone.
Speed Limits
In New York, speed limits are strictly enforced in certain areas, especially near docks, marinas, and swimming zones.
Always check local regulations for the correct speed in specific areas so you don't end up with a ticket you could have avoided. Speeding not only breaks the law but also puts you, your passengers, and others around you at risk.
What Are New York's Jet Ski Rules and Regulations?
What rules apply to operating a jet ski? Here's what you need to know.
Age Restrictions
Operators must be at least 14 years old and hold a Boater Safety Certificate, which qualifies as an NYS jet ski license. Youth aged 10-13 can also operate a jet ski, but an adult with a certificate must accompany them.
Because personal watercraft (PWC) can be dangerous, having a safety certificate helps ensure you know how to operate one properly.
Registration and Decals
All personal watercraft must be registered with the state. Display the registration stickers on both sides of the craft so approaching vessels can see them. This also makes it easier for marine law enforcement to know that you have a registration sticker no matter which side of your boat they approach.
Operational Restrictions
You can only operate a jet ski between sunrise and sunset, and you must maintain a minimum distance of 100 feet from shorelines, docks, and other vessels. This reduces the risk of an accident with another PWC, a larger vessel, or a swimmer.
Remember: Jet skis don't have the same lighting as a boat, so they aren't safe to use at night.
Mandatory Equipment
Your jet ski must have a lanyard cutoff switch to stop the motor if you fall off or have an accident where you're ejected from the driver's seat.
Additionally, operators and passengers of all PWC used on New York waterways must also wear a USCG-approved life jacket.
Environmental Considerations for Regulations
Some New York State water-related regulations are in place to help protect the environment. Here are a few rules to follow that help keep the state's waterways safe and enjoyable for all.
No Discharge Zones
Discharging sewage or waste into New York waterways is prohibited, no matter the size or type of vessel you have. Use proper disposal facilities at marinas to discharge sewage and dispose of other waste without environmental harm.
Preventing Aquatic Invasive Species
Zebra mussels and other invasive species can spread fast, and it's essential to prevent this and reduce risk. All boats, including PWCs, must be appropriately cleaned as part of aquatic invasive species prevention efforts.
What Are the Penalties for Regulation Violations?
What happens if you get caught breaking the rules of the water in New York? You could face stiff fines and other penalties.
Alcohol and Drug Rules for Boating
It is vital to take New York watercraft laws seriously, including the alcohol and drug rules, to protect yourself, your passengers, and other boaters.
Operating a vessel under the influence of drugs or alcohol (BAC of 0.08% or higher) is illegal on all NYS waterways and is strictly enforced. Penalties include fines, imprisonment, and suspension of your boating privileges.
Fines for Non-Compliance
Violating speed, safety, or registration rules can result in hefty fines.
The best way to avoid these unwanted and stressful expenses is to follow safety regulations, speed limits, and registration rules for all your watercraft. Whether you're new to boating or have enjoyed the water for a long time, following the rules makes everything easier.
Learn More About New York Watercraft Laws with Boater Education
Remember: If you plan to operate a boat or PWC this year, you must have a boater education certificate! Even if you could legally drive a boat in years past without a license, 2025 is the year you must take a course and get your boater card to boat legally in New York.
Let BOATERexam help you get your card and stay safe on the water before it's time to launch this spring! Our online boater education course teaches everything you need to know to boat safely and meet New York watercraft laws regarding licensing.
Take the course, pass the exam, get your card, and then boat safely and legally this year (and every year)!
