Boat rental requirements in Florida: What do you need to rent a boat?

If you still don’t know what you need to rent a boat in Florida, just read this article. Here we explain everything about Florida boat rental requirements.

Understanding Boat Rental Licenses and Local Regulations

Florida’s waterways provide a nice opportunity for recreation, sailing, and adventure. Whether you navigate lakes or canals or rent a yacht, a sailing boat, or any vessel, you must know the local regulations and boating safety requirements.

Do You Need a Boat License to Rent a Boat in Florida?

Although you don’t need a boat license to rent a boat in Florida, local boating regulations require a Boating Safety Education Identification Card for anyone born on or after January 1, 1988, who wants to operate a vessel with 10 horsepower or more (updated as of February 2022).

The Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card does not expire and certifies that the person named on it completed an approved boating safety classroom or online course.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website offers information on safety education courses by different companies, with prices from zero to $59.95.

Once you approve the safety course, get a copy of your Boating Safety Education ID Card by simply doing the following:

1)    If your course provider automatically requests the FWC to issue a card, you should receive your ID card within two or three weeks.

2)    If your instructor does not send a request to the FWC to issue the card, you will need a course completion certificate and submit a request for your Boating Safety Education ID Card to the FWC, including your course certificate and your name, date of birth, return address and phone number.

There is also the option of getting a temporary certificate to operate a vessel in Florida. This card is valid for 90 days, and you can obtain it after passing the Temporary Certificate Program. You can read the list of vendors authorized by the FWC to offer the Temporary Certificate Program exam online here.

Remember that fine and safe boating is all about being prepared.

Know Florida’s Boating Regulations

Whether you are a visitor or a Florida resident looking for a water adventure, it is pivotal to know the local boating laws and safety requirements to enjoy your on-water trip without fines and penalties. Here’s a list of regulations established by the FWC to operate a vessel:

• Carry your Boating Safety Education ID Card, which certifies you completed a boating safety course.
• It is unlawful to operate a boat while being intoxicated by alcohol or other drugs.
• Do not unreasonably interfere with the navigation of other vessels, as this may cause an accident.
• Be aware of operating at the required speed on posted speed zones. The boat’s wake must not be a hazard to other vessels.
• Even if it sounds obvious, remember that your and every person on board’s safety depends on operating the boat prudently and reasonably. Careless operation is considered a non-criminal infraction.

How Old Do You Have to Be to Rent a Boat in Florida?

The FWC establishes no minimum age to operate a boat on Florida waters. However, you must be 18 or older to rent a vessel in Florida.

On the other hand, personal watercraft (PWC) regulations are age-specific. A person must be at least 14 years old to operate a PWC in Florida and at least 18 to rent a PWC.

Even if a person is old enough to rent a vessel, remember that anyone born after January 1, 1988, must have the Florida Boating Safety Education Identification Card required to operate a boat of 10 horsepower or more.

Liveries should verify that you meet these requirements to keep yourself and anyone on board safe while enjoying wildlife in Florida waters.

What to Look for in a Boat Rental Agreement?

Once you’ve decided which vessel adapts best to your needs and recreation plan, it is key that you understand the boat rental agreement before you sign it. This document sets your obligations as a renter and the aspects you should consider, such as:

• The minimum age required and licensing to rent a boat, according to local laws.
• Damage and loss policies. Make sure that it’s in the agreement what you’re responsible for in case of an accident and damage or loss of any equipment.
• A security deposit may be required. The agreement should specify the amount and how it will be returned.
• Available safety equipment and where it is stored, including Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs).
• Lease time and geographical restrictions. Also, understand the penalties in case of breaking the agreement.
• Insurance coverage. The boat should be insured, and it should be established in the agreement. Knowing your rights and liabilities in case of injuries and damages is pivotal to staying protected. 
• Inspect the boat before signing the agreement and sailing!

Understanding Boat Rental Insurance Coverage

Offering the renter the option to purchase insurance coverage is mandatory for boat rental companies in Florida. When it comes to boat rental insurance, Florida law states:

• Liveries must have an insurance policy that covers at least $500,000 per person and $1 million per event.
• The livery must present the renter the opportunity to purchase coverage that insures the renter against casualties caused by or resulting from the operation of the livery vessel.
• If the renter chooses not to purchase the coverage, the boat rental company must get a signed acknowledgment from the renter with a statement indicated by the law.

More than a formality, insurance coverage protects the operator from liability in case of accidents, damages, equipment malfunction, and other risks. 

What Equipment Comes or Should Come With Your Rental Boat?

When renting a boat, know where every safety equipment is before leaving the marina. All recreational boats should come with a minimum required safety equipment, including:

• Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) for each person on board or being towed on water skis, etc. Every child under six must wear a PFD while the vessel is underway. Make sure that PFDs are the right size for every passenger.
• Visual distress signals are required on the high sea and coastal waters. These are also required for nighttime use.
• An efficient sound-producing device, such as a bell, horn, or whistle, as long as the boat can produce sound signals required by the navigation rules.
• A fire extinguisher in serviceable condition.
• Ventilation. Ventilation specifications vary according to the vessel building date.
• Backfire flame control for all gasoline engines except outboard motors.
• Vessel lighting is required between sunset and sunrise and during periods of low visibility.

Some requirements may vary depending on boat size. Learn more specifications here.

The Essential Boat Rental Checklist

A boat inspection before departing will ensure everything is in good condition to keep everyone on board safe during navigation. Check these aspects before signing your rental boat agreement:

• Look for pre-existing damages, such as scratches, cracks, and stains.
• Safety gear and first aid kit. Knowing where PFDs, lights, fire extinguishers, distress signals, etc, are located will help you be prepared and act faster in an emergency.
• Get familiar with the vessel’s controls and systems, especially if you’re operating a boat for the first time.
• Check there is enough fuel for your trip.
• Take enough supplies, water, and food to spend the day and enjoy your navigation.
• Make a solid plan. Before sailing, think about how you would like to spend time with family and friends.

Benefits of Renting a Boat With Us

Are you ready to rent a boat and enjoy a day on Florida waters? Let Above The Sea be part of your boating experience! 

• Explore a variety of yachts, mega yachts, sailboats, motorboats, and fishing charters in Florida according to your needs.
• Check out handpicked boats by our team in top charter destinations.
• Tour our updated map and discover boat options near you with top-notch features.
• Book online now and sail to adventure!