New York State Personal Watercraft (PWC) Laws and Regulations
Personal watercraft (PWCs) are motorized vessels under 16 ft in length that are powered by waterjet propulsion. They are usually designed to hold two or three people, who stand, kneel or sit on the craft rather than inside it. PWCs are often called by their brand names, which include Jet Ski, Sea-Doo and WaveRunner.
Due to their unique features and capabilities, PWCs are subject to slightly different restrictions than other types of motorized vessels.
PWC operation restrictions in New York
PWC operator requirements
In New York State, anyone who wants to operate a PWC must hold a New York safe boating certificate, regardless of age. PWC operators must be at least 14 years of age, and no one under the age of 16 may rent a PWC.
Legal hours of operation for PWCs in New York
New York’s boating laws state that PWCs are not to be operated during the hours of darkness or in periods of restricted visibility. Even if the vessel is equipped with navigation lights, it is prohibited to take it out on state waters between dusk and dawn.
Additional operation restrictions
Personal watercraft cannot be operated within 500 ft of a designated swim area, and must not be operated in a reckless manner that might lead to a boating accident. Examples of operating in a reckless manner include:
- Jumping the wake of another vessel
- Swerving at the last minute to avoid a collision
- Carrying more passengers than recommended by the manufacturer
Safety equipment required on PWCs in New York
PWCs have specific safety equipment requirements that differ from other types of motorized vessels. Required safety equipment includes:
- A sound signaling device
- A daytime distress signal such as an orange flag
- An engine cutoff switch with a safety lanyard that must be attached to the operator’s life jacket or clothing
Life jackets
All PWC operators and passengers are required to wear life jackets, regardless of age. Individuals being towed behind a PWC must also wear a life jacket. The life jackets must be:
- Approved by the US Coast Guard
- Not faded, ripped or torn
- The correct size for the wearer
- Designed for PWC use
Note that inflatable life jackets are not approved for PWC use.
Towing a person using a PWC
When someone is being towed behind a personal watercraft, there must be an individual at least 10 years of age other than the operator on the PWC who is designated to monitor the person being towed. PWCs that are used for towing must be rated to hold at least three people—the operator, the observer and the person being towed.
Get certified with Drive a Boat USA!
In order to legally operate a personal watercraft in New York State, you’ll need a boating safety certificate. Drive a Boat USA offers a State-approved boater safety course you can complete online to obtain certification. Learn everything you need to know about boating laws and safety with us, and set out on the water with confidence!