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.”)