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How Much Do You Know About Florida Boating Laws?

Sep. 15 2019 Florida Boating Laws By Boat and Motor Superstores

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Are you aware that the Florida Boating Laws may have changed since the last time you checked? The team at Boat and Motor Superstores want to make sure you have all the information you need to stay safe out there. When it comes to your safety, we are the ones to turn to. Our boat trader is conveniently located in Palm Harbor. 


Did You Know?

The U.S. Coast Guard released its 2018 Recreational Boating Statistics Report, revealing that there were 633 boating fatalities nationwide in 2018, a 3.8 percent decrease from 2017. Improving safety on the water is a key pillar of NMMA’s mission, and the association works closely with the U.S. Coast Guard to advance these efforts. This is why the boating laws in Florida are going through changes. 


Florida Boating Laws You Need To Know

  • Age and Operator Restrictions


    • No one under the age of 14 years may operate a personal watercraft (PWC) on Florida waters at any time, even if such person possesses a Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card.

    • No one under the age of 18 years may rent/lease a PWC.

    • It is also illegal for the owner of a PWC to knowingly allow a person under 14 years of age to operate a PWC.

    • The law requires that persons affected by this legislation have in their possession a Florida Boating Safety Education I.D. Card issued by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and photographic ID while operating a vessel.

  • Exemptions


    • Operators are exempt from needing to get the license if they are:


      • Licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard as a master of a vessel

      • Operating on a private lake or pond

      • Accompanied on board by a person who is exempt from the education requirement or by a person who is at least 18 years old, possesses the required identification cards, and is attendant to the operation of the vessel and responsible for any violation that occurs

      • Operating a vessel within 90 days after purchase and have a bill of sale on board and available for inspection

  • Enforcement


    • Florida law enforcement officers patrol the waterways to make your boating experience safe and pleasant. Cooperate with them by following the laws and guidelines.


      • Carry the Card: Vessel operators who are required to have a Boater Education Card must carry the card onboard the vessel and have it available for inspection by an enforcement officer.

      • Penalty: Not carrying your Boater Education Card when one is required can result in a fine.


Call Our Boat Trader Today!

Learn all the information you need to know about Florida boating laws! Boat and Motor Superstores takes pride in being the best boat dealer. We understand the boating lifestyle and how important it is to have a reliable and great looking boat to take out on the water. We offer many boating services, and we even have dockside assistance, so you do not have to bring your boat into our boat dealers near Tampa. Call or contact our boat trader today for more information on boats for sale in Palm Harbor.