Rules

Who Can Drive a Boat in Florida? – Boating License & Age Requirements

We often get asked: Who is allowed to operate a boat in Florida? Here’s a simple breakdown of what you need to know before renting a boat from us at Holmes Beach Boat Rental.

1. Minimum Age Requirement

  • You must be at least 18 years old to rent a boat in Florida.
  • To operate a boat with 10 horsepower or more, you must be born on or after January 1, 1988 and carry proof of a valid Boating Safety Education Identification Card – or an approved equivalent.

2. What if I was born before 1988?

  • If you were born before January 1, 1988, you do not need a boating license or safety card to operate a boat in Florida.

3. International & European Visitors

  • Visitors from outside the U.S. – including Europe – can drive a boat with a valid government-issued ID or driver’s license, plus a Boating Safety Certificate (see below).
  • Your European driver’s license does not count as a boating license.

4. How to Get the Required Boating Safety Certificate

  • If you were born in or after 1988, you’ll need to complete a Florida-approved boating safety course and carry the temporary or permanent Boating Safety Education Card.
  • You can take the course online. One popular option is:

5. Important Notes

  • The temporary certificate is valid for 90 days and accepted for boat rentals.
  • You must carry your certificate and your ID while operating the boat.
  • No boating experience? No worries – we provide a full safety and navigation briefing before every rental.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us before your rental. We’re happy to help make your boating experience safe and unforgettable!