How to Get a Florida Jet Ski License

If you have a jet ski in Florida or are considering buying a personal watercraft, you may be wondering if you need a Florida jet ski license to operate it and how to get one. Most people do need a license, but the good news is that it's not hard to obtain. 

By getting licensed, you'll be able to hit the waters legally with the confidence to keep yourself and others safe. Keeping Florida's waterways safe requires everyone working together to follow the law and all safe jet ski practices.

Here's what you should know about getting your license and enjoying your jet ski experience.

Why a Florida Jet Ski License is Necessary

Florida law requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, to hold a Boating Safety Education Identification Card to operate any vessel powered by 10 horsepower or more, including jet skis. Florida's waterways can be busy, and having sound knowledge of managing your vessel is extremely valuable for you and everyone nearby.

With safety training, you can reduce your risk of injury and help protect others who are boating, swimming, or enjoying their own personal watercraft. Even if you were born before 1988, getting a Florida personal watercraft license is still a great idea. You'll learn a lot about Florida PWC laws and have more peace of mind.

How to Get Your License

The first step to getting your license is enrolling in a boating safety course. The course has to be approved by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) or the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA).

Make sure you don't choose a course that isn't approved by these organizations, or it won't count toward your licensing requirements. An easy way to ensure you're taking an approved course is to take the ilearntoboat online course for Florida!

After you go through the course, you'll need to pass the final exam. This typically covers what you've learned in the course, including navigation, boating rules, environmental concerns, and safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and life jackets.

Once you've passed the exam, you'll be issued a permanent Boating Safety Education ID Card by the FWC. While there is a cost to take the course and exam, the issuance of the card itself is free.

The Temporary Boating Certificate Option

If you're visiting the state or only rent a jet ski occasionally, you can get immediate access to operate a vessel legally by taking the Temporary Boating Certificate Test online. Your certificate will be valid for 90 days, and this is a common way for tourists and other occasional renters to operate a jet ski legally in Florida waters. 

Getting a temporary certificate is a great way to have fun on vacation so you don't miss out on an adventure with friends or family. This certificate also works well for anyone who doesn't own a jet ski and wants to try one out. Renting a personal watercraft can help you decide if it's right for you.

Who Needs a License?

Anyone who operates a personal watercraft like a jet ski must have a Florida jet ski license.

However, the exceptions to this rule are people born before January 1, 1988, and those accompanied by a licensed boater over 18.

What Happens if I Don't Have a License?

Failure to comply with Florida jet ski license regulations can have serious consequences, including fines. Not only are there legal risks to bypassing the requirements, but there are also significant risks to your safety and the safety of others.

In short, it's not worth it.

Costs and Time Investment

Boater education courses generally take 4-8 hours, and costs will vary based on where you take the course.

The ilearntoboat course for Florida is $59.95 and one of the fastest ways to get your license in about three hours — plus, it's a fun, gamified way to learn.

Tips for Safe Jet Ski Operation

There are some essential ways to be as safe as possible when operating a jet ski.

Along with taking a safety course and getting your license, make sure you:

• Wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while operating a jet ski.
• Follow speed regulations and respect designated slow areas.
• Be mindful of other watercraft, people, and wildlife.

By paying attention and getting comfortable with your jet ski, you can have a better and safer time on the water. It can be fun to go fast, but there are times and places where that should be avoided.

Being respectful and knowing when to slow down and watch out for others is crucial.

Get Your Florida Personal Watercraft License with ilearntoboat!

Ready to hit the water on your jet ski? Let ilearntoboat help you get your Florida personal watercraft license.

Our boater education course is a valuable way to learn about safety on the water. You'll gain critical information about navigating, protecting yourself, and watching for others so you can have a great day on the water.

ilearntoboat online courses are approved by each state, so you can get your license after completing the course and passing the final exam. Plus, you'll enjoy learning through a story-based game that covers everything you need to know to stay safe on the water.

Ready to get licensed? Click to register for our Florida course!