West Virginia Boating Laws
and Regulations
The West Virginia Boater Safety Course teaches key boating safety for state waters. CertifiedBoater makes learning simple with easy guides and practice tests to help you pass fast
Table of Contents
Other Resources
- Florida Boater Safety Course
- Florida Course Comparison Guide
- Florida Boating License Guide
- Florida Boat Rental Certificate
West Virginia Boating Laws and Regulations
Age and Operator Restrictions
Those 12 to 14 years of age may operate a motorboat or PWC only if:
- They have completed a boating safety education course and…
- If they are accompanied by a person 18 years of age or older on board the vessel or the vessel’s motor is 10 hp or less.
Enforcement
West Virginia law enforcement officers patrol the waterways to make your boating experience safe and pleasant. Cooperate with them by following the laws and guidelines.
Carry the Card: Vessel operators who are required to have a Boater Education Card must carry the card on board the vessel and have it available for inspection by an enforcement officer.
Penalty: Not carrying your Boater Education Card when one is required can result in a fine.
Reciprocity
For visiting boaters, all states, territories, and provinces will recognize boating education cards that meet NASBLA requirements and Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Cards that meet Transport Canada’s requirements. (This is known as “reciprocity.”)
