Starting July 1, 2025, Minnesota is implementing a major change to its boating laws that will impact thousands of residents across the state. Aimed at improving safety on increasingly congested lakes and rivers, the new law requires boat operator permits for more age groups—and eventually, most adult boaters.
Previously, only youth ages 12–17 were required to take a boating safety course and obtain a permit. But under the new rule, that age bracket will expand each year:
Previously, only youth ages 12–17 were required to take a boating safety course and obtain a permit. But under the new rule, that age bracket will expand each year:
- Born after June 30, 2004 – Permit required starting July 1, 2025
- Born after June 30, 2000 – Permit required starting July 1, 2026
- Born after June 30, 1996 – Permit required starting July 1, 2027
- Born after June 30, 1987 – Permit required starting July 1, 2028
By 2028, the law will apply to nearly every adult under 40 operating a motorized watercraft in Minnesota.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says the change comes in response to growing congestion and conflicts on popular lakes, as well as a steady increase in boating-related incidents. Education on buoys, navigation rules, and right-of-way is now seen as critical—even for experienced boaters.
In addition to the age-based permit rollout:
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says the change comes in response to growing congestion and conflicts on popular lakes, as well as a steady increase in boating-related incidents. Education on buoys, navigation rules, and right-of-way is now seen as critical—even for experienced boaters.
In addition to the age-based permit rollout:
- The minimum age to operate a jet ski is lowered from 14 to 12 (with a permit).
- Renters must be at least 18 years old to rent any watercraft.
While the law has received support for its safety-first focus, not everyone is on board. Some long-time boaters argue that experience should be enough. But DNR officials maintain that formal training helps reduce accidents and confusion, especially in busy waters.
If you're planning to hit the water this summer, be sure to check if you or your family need a boating permit—and stay up to date as the law evolves through 2028.
Looking for a new lake home in Minnesota? Connect with Darin the Minnesotan for expert advice and lakeside listings.
If you're planning to hit the water this summer, be sure to check if you or your family need a boating permit—and stay up to date as the law evolves through 2028.
Looking for a new lake home in Minnesota? Connect with Darin the Minnesotan for expert advice and lakeside listings.
