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Minnesota Boating License Requirements

In Minnesota, the requirement applies to anyone aged 12 or over and born after 30 June 2000 operating motorboats including PWC. The credential is the Watercraft Operator's Permit, issued by Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Minnesota boating license requirements at a glance

Who needs itaged 12 or over and born after 30 June 2000
Applies tomotorboats including PWC
What it is calledWatercraft Operator's Permit
Issued byMinnesota Department of Natural Resources
Minnesota is phasing this in by age. It began on 1 July 2025 for those born after 30 June 2004; since 1 July 2026 it covers everyone aged 12 or over born after 30 June 2000; and from 1 July 2028 it reaches everyone born after 30 June 1987.

Buying a boat in Minnesota?

A licence makes you legal to operate. It tells you nothing about the boat itself. Run the hull number free — it decodes the builder and model year, and flags any US Coast Guard recall campaign on record for that manufacturer.

Frequently asked

Do I need a boating license in Minnesota?

Minnesota requires the Watercraft Operator's Permit for anyone aged 12 or over and born after 30 June 2000 operating motorboats including PWC.

Official source: Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Compiled September 2026 from Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and NASBLA-aligned sources. Boating law changes, and this page is a summary rather than the regulation — confirm with the agency before relying on it. See the states covered here.

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