There is a new law that goes into effect in 2024 you should be aware of.
Watercraft Educational Requirement
Beginning January 1, 2024, a person born on or after January 1, 1999 may not operate a motorboat of twenty-five (25) horsepower or greater for recreational boating purposes on inland waters of this State or territorial waters, unless that person is 12 years of age or older and has completed a boater safety and education course. They must take a NASBLA approved Boating Safety Education Course and obtain the Boating Safety Education Card.
Personal Water Craft Educational Requirement
A person under 16 years of age may not operate a personal watercraft.
Beginning January 1, 2024, a person born on or after January 1, 1999 may not operate a personal watercraft on inland waters of the State unless that person is 16 years of age or older and has completed a boater safety and education course.
Definition of personal watercraft
"Personal watercraft" means any motorized watercraft that is 14 feet or less in hull length as manufactured, has as its primary source of propulsion an inboard motor powering a jet pump and is capable of carrying one or more persons in a sitting, standing or kneeling position. "Personal watercraft" includes, but is not limited to, a jet ski, wet bike, surf jet and miniature speedboat. "Personal watercraft" also includes motorized watercraft whose operation is controlled by a water skier. "Personal watercraft" does not include a motorized watercraft that does not have a horsepower rating greater than 15 horsepower and does not generate an unreasonable amount of noise.
Learn where to take a boater education course:
www.maine.gov/ifw/programs-resources/educational-programs/safety-courses/boating-safety.html
Written by Chris Brink