Texas Boating Regulations
The Texas Boater Education Certificate (often mistakenly referred to as the Texas
boating license) is proof that a boater has taken and passed an approved boater
education course. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department currently has a mandatory
boater education requirement that requires all boaters who are are under 18 years
of age and operate a wind-blown vessel over 14 feet, any vessel over 10 horsepower,
or a personal watercraft on Texas waters, to pass a TPWD Approved Safe Boating Course
to satisfy the Texas boating regulations.
All persons subject to this law must have a picture identification card and a boater
education certificate issued by the department in their possession. Boaters under
18 years of age accompanied by an adult 18 year of age or older are not required
to be certified but it is always a recommended practice.
Many boating fatalities occur because boaters aren't educated about boating safety.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department believes that an educated boater is a safer
boater.
Party Boat Operator Licensing and Inspection Process (NEW!)
As of June 1, 2007, a Party Boat Operator License issued by the Texas Parks and Wildlife
Department is required for operators of charter vessels, operating on inland waters, carrying
more than six passengers and with a length exceeding 30 feet. The only exemption from this
requirement is if the operator holds a current USCG Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel
(OUPV) License, often referred to as a “6-pack license,” or higher level of Captain’s license
issued by the USCG. Inland charter or party boats must now also have annual inspections and post
the annual inspection certificate on their boat. For more details on the Party Boat Operator regulations,
age and experience requirements, and application process, see the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website
at www.tpwd.state.tx.us/partyboat.
Where can I get more information about Texas boating regulations and the Texas Boater
Education Certificate?
You can visit
The Texas Parks & Wildlife Department for additional information, or
you can contact us and we will be glad
to answer any of your questions.