Boater education mandatory in Texas; BASS implements tourney requirement

Texas is a mandatory boater education state. Completion of a Boater Education Course, or TPWD prescribed equivalency exam, is required of anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 who operates any vessel over 15 horsepower, wind-blown vessel over 14 feet and all personal watercraft on Texas.

Children under 13 are prohibited from operating a PWC unless accompanied on board by a person at least 18 years of age who is legally authorized to operate one.

To operate a vessel alone in Texas, a boater must be 13 years of age to operate a vessel of more than 15 horsepower; or windblown vessel over 14 feet in length; and meet boater education requirements.