California Personal Watercraft (PWC) Laws and Regulations
California’s jet ski and personal watercraft laws are intended to protect the safety of operators, passengers, and other waterway users. It’s important for PWC users to be familiar with these laws in order to avoid accidentally engaging in illegal and dangerous behavior.
Personal watercraft registration
Personal watercraft must be registered with the state, just like other motorized vessels. An application form must be sent to the DMV to register the vessel. Once the vessel’s registration number is received, it must be affixed to the bow on both sides.
PWC safety equipment and features
Life jackets
Anyone who is on board a PWC or being towed behind one is legally required to wear a life jacket that is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and appropriate for the activity in question.
Engine cut-off switches and other safety features
Anyone who operates a PWC equipped with an engine cut-off switch on a lanyard is required to attach the lanyard to their life jacket or clothing.
It is illegal to operate a PWC that is equipped with a self-circling device that has been altered.
PWC operation restrictions
Hours of operation
A PWC may not be operated at any time between the hours of sunset and sunrise.
Operator age
There are strict age requirements for operating a motorized vessel in California. No one under the age of 16 is allowed to operate a motorboat with more than 15 horsepower, including a personal watercraft. Youth between the ages of 12 and 15 are allowed to operate a motorboat with more than 15 horsepower or PWC ONLY if they are being directly supervised by an adult who holds a California Boater Card.
Reckless operation
It’s against the law to operate a PWC in a reckless or negligent manner that endangers life, limb or property. Examples include:
- Driving between a towing vessel and its tow
- Operating under the influence
- Jumping the wake of another vessel within 100 feet of it
- Intentionally swerving to spray a person or vessel
- Driving so fast and close to another vessel that it is forced to swerve to avoid a collision
Learn more about California boating law with Drive a Boat USA!
It’s important for boaters and PWC operators to be familiar with California boating regulations in order to keep themselves and others safe on the water. That’s why the state of California is currently implementing a safety course requirement for anyone who wants to operate a motorized vessel. The requirement is being phased in by age and will apply to all Californians by 2025.
Drive a Boat USA offers a US boat safety course that is approved by NASBLA and the state of California. Simply complete the course and exam online to obtain your certification!