New Boating Permit Law Takes Effect in Minnesota July 1
Starting July 1, 2025, a new Minnesota law will require most people born after June 30, 2004, to obtain a watercraft operator’s permit before using a motorboat or jet ski. Phased in through 2028, the law aims to improve safety and education on the state’s lakes and rivers, with online courses available now through the Minnesota DNR.
Beginning July 1, 2025, a major change to Minnesota’s boating regulations will take effect, requiring most operators of motorized watercraft born after June 30, 2004, to carry a valid watercraft operator’s permit.
Passed by state lawmakers to improve public safety and awareness on Minnesota’s lakes and rivers, the new law mandates boating safety certification for anyone age 12 and older, phasing in over four years to eventually include adults born as early as 1987.
“This new boating education law is a crucial step toward enhancing safety on our waterways,” said Lt. Rick Rehman of the Hennepin County Water Patrol. “When everyone is properly trained and informed, there will hopefully be fewer incidents and a positive change overall. Our goal is for everyone to have a great time on the water, knowing they’re safe.”
Who needs a permit—and when?
Under the law, individuals born after June 30, 2004, must complete a state-approved safety course and obtain a watercraft operator’s permit to legally operate a motorboat or personal watercraft (such as jet skis) on Minnesota waters. Complete the online Boating Safety course here.
The requirement expands to additional age groups in future years:
- July 1, 2026: Applies to those born after June 30, 2000
- July 1, 2027: Applies to those born after June 30, 1996
- July 1, 2028: Applies to those born after June 30, 1987
People born before July 1, 1987, will remain exempt—unless they fall under specific scenarios, including supervising younger operators or renting a watercraft.
Key provisions and exemptions
The law outlines strict requirements for accompanying adults supervising youth operators: They must be at least 21 years old, within immediate reach of the controls, and must also hold a permit or qualify for an exemption.
Additional rules include:
- Adults renting a motorboat or personal watercraft must be at least 18 and possess a valid permit.
- Children under age 12 are prohibited from operating personal watercraft or boats with engines over 75 horsepower. They may operate smaller boats only with a qualified adult on board.
- Out-of-state visitors may operate without a Minnesota permit for up to 60 days, as long as they meet boating education requirements in their home jurisdiction.
- Credentialed maritime professionals licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard or Canadian authorities are exempt.
Safety through education
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which oversees the new program, emphasized an education-first approach to enforcement during the initial years. County sheriff’s offices are encouraged to issue warnings and guidance over citations, unless there are clear safety risks or repeat violations.
The required course is available online through the DNR’s website and can be completed at the learner’s pace.
“We encourage everyone to complete the course early,” the DNR said in a statement. “This isn’t just about passing a test—it’s about ensuring a safer experience for everyone who enjoys Minnesota’s waters.”
To register for the safety course or learn more about the new law, visit:
https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/boatwater/education.html
Having ridden a motorcycle in California, and having lived in California where lane splitting is legal, I have reservations about it. Often, when lane splitting is done, there is very little room to do it. That increases the risk of having a motorcycle brush against a car. Although that is not likely to result in serious injury, it can do at least superficial damage to both the car and the motorcycle. Thus, if lane splitting is made legal, I hope that considerable caution will be observed.