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GUIDE TO LAKE ARLINGTON :: PERSONAL WATERCRAFT
 Legal Requirements
The U.S. Coast Guard classifies personal watercraft (PWC) as Class A
inboard boats. That means PWCs are subject to the same rules and
requirements as any other powerboat, along with some additional
regulations.
All those born after August 31, 1984 and under 18 years of age, are
legally required to pass a boater education course before they can
legally operate:
- A boat or PWC powered by a motor
of 10 horsepower or more, or..
- A sailboat over 14 feet in length.
The course must be approved by the Texas Parks and Wildlife. These
persons must carry with them on the boat or PWC:
- A photographic identification,
such as a drivers license, and...
- A boater education certification
card issued by TPW upon successful completion
Registration
Federal regulations require all personal watercraft to be registered
and have an identification number. When your registration application
is approved, you will receive your certificate of number, title and
validation sticker (if applicable in your state). Follow state and
federal guidelines for displaying validation and registration numbers.
 Equipment
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) are required for each person on
board. Choose a properly fitting, U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD and
wear it. Coast Guard and state rules also require you to have a fire
extinguisher on board. Many crafts have a lanyard connected to the
start/stop switch. If your craft is equipped with such a switch, it
will not start unless the lanyard is attached to it. Never start your
engine without attaching the lanyard to your PFD or wrist. If you fall
off, the engine automatically stops so your craft will not travel far
from you, and you can swim to it easily. It is also recommended that
each rider wear eye protection, a wetsuit, footwear and gloves.
No Alcohol or Drugs
Do not operate your personal watercraft under the influence of
anything but your good judgment. Alcohol and drugs reduce your ability
to make quick decisions and handle your craft in all situations. Many
laws pertaining to driving under the influence are also enforced on
the water.
Local Ordinances
It is your responsibility to know and follow local laws and ordinances
regarding the use of your watercraft. Common restrictions that vary by
state or municipality include age of the operator, no wake zones,
assigned operating areas, and speed limits.
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Personal Watercraft Safety Checklist
- All riders must wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard
approved life jacket.
- Look in all directions constantly for other boats,
skiers, divers and swimmers, and other personal
watercraft. Stay Alert!
- Do not use alcohol before or during operation.
- Securely attach engine stop lanyard, if provided, to
your wrist or life jacket. Keep attached at all times. On
models with no lanyard, learn reboarding procedures.
- Avoid wake jumping and passing within 50 feet of any
other boats or fixtures, such as docks. You must be 150
feet from any boat towing a skier.
- Be of legal age to operate the craft you will be riding.
- Always operate at a safe speed and be prepared to stop
or alter course in emergencies.
- Stay in sight of shore, but avoid operating too close to
residential and congested areas.
- Know the waters you will operate in and observe all
navigational markers and signs.
- Know "Right of Way" rules. Generally, keep to
your right and safely avoid other craft.
- Operation of personal watercraft is permitted only
between sunrise and sunset.
- Observe all federal, state and local boating laws.
- Know and understand all operational features of the
craft you will be riding.
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