Jet Ski License – How to Ride Waverunners Legally and Safely
You need a Jet Ski license (or PWC license) to ride in New Jersey and several other states. You must pass a boat safety test in order to get a license. After passing the test, you go to the nearest motor vehicle agency to pick up your Jet Ski license. Make sure you bring ID, and your passing certificate for your boat safety exam.
Here’s How to Operate a Jet Ski Safely After Acquiring Your License
- Get Insured
The first step you should take after getting your Jet Ski license is to take out an insurance policy, which will comprise most of the conditions of standard car insurance except that there are also stipulations for gas spill clean-up and wreckage removal. There are only a handful of discounts offered for insuring Jet Skis, unlike motor vehicles. There are lots of programs offered, educating citizens on how to drive Jet Skis safely and insurance companies encourage potential customers to make use of these classes.
- Know the Requirements of Your State
In New York State, anyone may operate a Jet Ski if someone at least eighteen years of age is riding the craft and he or she holds a safety certificate. In New Jersey, you need to be at least sixteen years old, and in possession of a Jet Ski license, whether you reside in the state or not. In Connecticut, if you have a valid vessel operator license from the United States Coast Guard you do not require a safe boating certificate or a Jet Ski license.
It is a general rule of law that any person operating a Jet Ski has a responsibility to prevent injuries and death to others. Operating the Jet Ski defensively, paying attention to “no wake” signs and boat traffic, keeping distance from other watercraft, and wearing protective clothing are just some of the common safety precautions.