July 1 Law Requires Valid Permit for Boat Operators

Minnesota boaters face new permit rules to enhance water safety

New law initially only applies to those born after June 30, 2004.

New education requirements in effect July 1 for some boaters in Minnesota - Albert Lea Tribune

Beginning July 1, more people who operate motorboats or personal watercrafts on Minnesota waters must obtain a valid watercraft operator’s permit. The updated requirements, passed into law during 2023, are intended to make boating safer by ensuring people operating motorized watercraft know the rules and are properly trained, according to a Minnesota Department of Natural Resources press release. Initially, the law applies to: People who were b…

Minnesota’s new boating law begins July 1: What you need to know

DNR officials say they want to ensure you’re aware of the new rules before they begin over the holiday weekend.

New Minnesota law impacting boating permits begins July 1st

By Sydney Zatz DETROIT LAKES, Minn. (Valley News Live) – It’s lake season in Minnesota, and starting July 1st, 2025, there’s going to be a new boating safety law. Starting July 1st, 2025, adults, anyone 12 and older, and youth who operate motorboats, including a personal watercraft, will have to get a valid watercraft operator’s permit. “Right now, it does require youth operators, those under the age of 18, to have an operator’s permit if they’r…

July 1 law requires valid permit for boat operators

Minnesota's new law mandates boat permits for operators born after June 2004, effective July 1. Get your permit for safe summer lake activities.

As recreational boating season kicks off, a reminder to make safety the top priority - Sleepy Eye Herald-Dispatch

Anglers have been common sights on waterways across Minnesota, but lakes and rivers have become much busier after the arrival of Memorial Day weekend. The long weekend represents the traditional start of the recreational boating season, when other water recreation enthusiasts join the anglers and paddlers who’ve been on the water since ice-out.