Are you wondering The answer is 16 years old. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you are under 16 years old but are accompanied by a parent or guardian who is at least 21 years old, you may operate a pontoon boat without a license. Additionally, if you are under 16 years old and have completed a boating safety course approved by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, you may operate a pontoon boat without a license.
So How Old Do You Have To Be To Drive A Pontoon Boat In Michigan?
To operate a personal watercraft PWC in Michigan, you must be at least 16 years old. To operate a boat with a motor of 10 hp or greater, you must be at least 16 years old. To operate a boat with a motor of less than 10 hp, you must be at least 12 years old.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Drive a Pontoon Boat in Michigan?
The Legal Requirements
The minimum age to operate a motorized boat in Michigan is 16 years old. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, children under the age of 16 can operate a boat if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian who is at least 18 years old. Additionally, children under the age of 16 can operate a boat that is less than 10 horsepower if they have completed a boating safety course.
The Boating Safety Course
The Michigan Boating Safety Course is a four-hour course that teaches students about the basics of boating safety. Topics covered in the course include:
Boating laws and regulations
Boat handling and operation
Marine safety equipment
Weather and water conditions
First aid and CPR
Students who complete the course will receive a boating safety certificate, which is valid for five years.
What to Do If You Are Stopped by a Law Enforcement Officer
If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer while operating a boat, you should be prepared to show your boating safety certificate. You should also be prepared to answer questions about the operation of your boat and the safety equipment that you are carrying.
If you are under the age of 16 and you are operating a boat without a parent or guardian, you may be issued a citation. You may also be required to take the boating safety course.
Conclusion
The minimum age to operate a motorized boat in Michigan is 16 years old. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Children under the age of 16 can operate a boat if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian who is at least 18 years old, or if they have completed a boating safety course.
If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer while operating a boat, you should be prepared to show your boating safety certificate and answer questions about the operation of your boat and the safety equipment that you are carrying.
Also Read: What Size Motor Do I Need For A 20 Foot Pontoon Boat
FAQs About How Old You Have to Be to Drive a Pontoon Boat in Michigan
What is the minimum age to drive a pontoon boat in Michigan?
The minimum age to drive a pontoon boat in Michigan is 16 years old.
Do I need a license to drive a pontoon boat in Michigan?
Yes, you need a Michigan Boater Education Certificate to drive a pontoon boat in Michigan. You can get your certificate by taking a boating safety course approved by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
What are the other boating laws in Michigan?
In addition to the minimum age requirement, there are a number of other boating laws in Michigan. These include:
You must wear a life jacket when operating a boat on open water.
You must have a fire extinguisher on board your boat.
You must obey all posted speed limits.
You must not drink and boat.
What are the penalties for violating boating laws in Michigan?
The penalties for violating boating laws in Michigan can include fines, jail time, and the loss of your boating privileges.
Where can I find more information about boating laws in Michigan?
You can find more information about boating laws in Michigan on the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website.
