New Mexico Boating Laws
and Regulations
The New Mexico 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
New Mexico Boating Laws and Regulations
Age and Operator Restrictions
All persons must be at least 13 years of age to operate a sailboat, motorboat, or PWC unless they are under the direct, on board supervision of an adult.
Those under 13 years of age must have their Boater Education Certificate on board even when operating under direct supervision.
Exemptions
Operators are exempt if they:
- Possess a valid license issued by the U.S. Coast Guard or…
- Are renting the motorboat for 30 days or fewer and have received instructions on safe boat operation and a summary of boating law from the rental company.
Enforcement
New Mexico 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 Certifiedboater 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.”)
