36 CFR § 3.6Chapter I

§ 3.6 What are the requirements to operate a power driven vessel?

Primary source

Verbatim text below is from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR), a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the current version with the eCFR before relying on it for any legal matter.

Full Text

(a) To operate a power-driven vessel on park waters, a person must be either:

(1) At least 16 years old; or

(2) Between 12 and 15 years old and accompanied on the vessel by a person at least 18 years old.

(b) If a park area is located within a State having different age requirements, then the applicable State law is adopted in lieu of paragraph (a) of this section.

(c) If a park area is located within a State having a mandatory boater education requirement, then that State requirement is adopted.

eCFR data current as of: June 10, 2026

This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.