Personal Watercraft (PWC) in Oklahoma

In addition to the regulations and laws regarding power vessels, PWC are also subject to the following laws and regulations in the state of Oklahoma:

• PWC operators must be at least 12 years old.
• A person from 12 to less than 16 years of age may operate a PWC only after successfully completing a NASBLA approved boating education course and must be visually supervised within 500 yards by a competent adult 18 years of age or older.
• All PWC operators, passengers, and anyone being towed must wear a wearable USCG-approved Type I, II or III PFD at all times.
• If equipped with an emergency ignition safety switch or a self-circling feature, the PWC operator must attach the engine shut off lanyard to his or her person, PFD, or clothing.
• It is illegal to operate PWC between sunset and sunrise or during periods of restricted visibility unless PWC is equipped with the required navigation lights.
• Some municipal lakes have specified PWC use areas.
• Dangerous operation of a PWC is unlawful, this includes:
  • Wake jumping in a dangerous manner.
  • Weaving through congested traffic.
  • Operating any vessel at speeds over 10 MPH while within 50 feet in proximity to another vessel.
  • Operating a PWC at greater than “no wake” or idle speed within 150 feet of: any boat ramp, a dock or pier, or an anchored or moored vessel.