North Carolina Boating laws and Regulations
Do you need a boating license in North Carolina?
You do need a Boater Safety Education Certificate if:
- You were born on or after January 1, 1988
- You operate a motorboat of 10 horsepower or more
- You operate a personal watercraft (jet ski)
Boating minimum age rules in North Carolina
- Under 14: cannot operate a jet ski (PWC)
- Ages 14–15: can operate a jet ski only if:
- You passed a safety course, and
- You either have adult supervision or meet certification rules
- Age 16+: can operate a jet ski with required safety certificate
Life jacket (PFD) rules
- One life jacket per person is required on all boats
- Must be US Coast Guard approved
- Must fit each person properly and be easy to access
Special rules:
- Kids under 13 must wear life jackets while boat is moving
- Jet ski riders must always wear a life jacket
- Anyone being towed must wear a life jacket
Jet ski (PWC) rules North Carolina
- Minimum age is 14 (with restrictions)
- Must follow safety certificate rules
- No one under 16 can operate without meeting requirements or supervision rules
- Life jacket is always required
- Must follow all boating laws
Boat registration rules
You must register:
- All motorboats (including jet skis)
- Sailboats longer than 14 feet
- Out-of-state boats staying in NC over 90 days
- Coast Guard documented boats staying over 90 days
You do NOT need to register:
- Canoes, kayaks, rowboats, or paddle boats
- Boats used only in private ponds
- Out-of-state boats visiting less than 90 days
Registration is usually valid for 1 or 3 years
Buying or selling a boat
To transfer ownership:
- Get the signed title from the seller
- Complete a bill of sale
- Fill out NC Wildlife form VL-1
- Have seller signature notarized
- Pay fees
- Submit documents to Wildlife Resources Commission or agent
Alcohol and drugs
- It is illegal to operate a boat under the influence
- BAC limit is 0.08%
- This applies to boats, jet skis, and towing activities
Accident rules
If an accident happens:
- Stop immediately
- Help anyone in danger if safe to do so
- Exchange information
- Report serious accidents to authorities
Safe operation rules
You must:
- Operate at a safe speed for conditions
- Avoid reckless or careless driving
- Stay away from swimmers, docks, and congested areas
Other important rules
- Stay at least 50 feet from dive flags
- Follow no-wake zones near ramps and crowded areas
- Follow all posted speed limits and signs
- Allow law enforcement to stop and inspect your boat
