What is required for 14 and 15-year-olds to operate a PWC?

For 14 and 15-year-olds to operate a Personal Watercraft (PWC) in Michigan, it is essential that they are supervised by an adult who is at least 21 years old and possesses a valid boating safety certificate. This requirement is in place to ensure that younger operators are adequately guided by a knowledgeable adult, which enhances safety on the water. The boating safety certificate indicates that the operator has completed the necessary training to understand the rules and responsibilities associated with operating a PWC.

While it’s important for all operators of PWCs to follow safety guidelines, including wearing appropriate safety gear like a life jacket, the specific requirement for 14 and 15-year-olds emphasizes the need for adult supervision and certification for safety purposes. This rule is designed to reduce the risk of accidents by ensuring that inexperienced operators have the support they need while operating a fast and potentially hazardous machine like a PWC.