{"id":376573,"date":"2016-11-29T16:57:03","date_gmt":"2016-11-29T21:57:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ability-fl-prod.internetbrands.com\/ability-law\/state\/texas-law\/texas-boating-laws.html"},"modified":"2016-12-05T19:06:53","modified_gmt":"2016-12-06T00:06:53","slug":"texas-boating-laws","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/texas-law\/texas-boating-laws.html","title":{"rendered":"Texas Boating Laws"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Texas Boating Laws<\/h1>\n
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Created by FindLaw’s team<\/a> of legal writers and editors<\/i><\/p>\n\n | Last updated\n

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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

The regulation of motor vehicles in Texas doesn’t stop at the roads and highways. Texas boating laws also provide oversight on the operation of boats on the many Texas waterways. However, the regulation of these two kinds of vessels differs significantly. The following article provides an overview to help ensure that your compliance with Texas boating laws is watertight.<\/p>\n

Vessel Titling and Registration<\/h2>\n

Texas boating laws require that all motorized boats, sailboats larger than 14 feet or with an auxiliary engine, and all internal combustion outboard motors must be registered and bear a certificate of title. These documents establish the ownership and responsibility for the craft in question.<\/p>\n

Boating Licenses<\/h2>\n

Although the rules relating to the operation of boats is more liberal than the rules for operating other kinds of motor vehicles, there are still some basic requirements that must be met under Texas law. Texas does not issue a boating license, but there are age and education requirements for the operation of some boats. The chart below provides an overview of these requirements.<\/p>\n

Boating and Alcohol<\/h2>\n

Boating has some similarities and distinctions from automobile operation when it comes to alcohol possession and use. Boating under the influence<\/a> of alcohol or drugs (BUI) is prohibited. The chart below contains information about alcohol possession, intoxication, and other issues relating to alcohol and Texas boating laws.<\/p>\n

Texas Boating Laws: The Basics<\/h2>\n\n
Code Sections<\/b><\/td>\n
Age & Education Requirements<\/b><\/td>\n

Boater age and education requirements exist for the following watercraft:<\/p>\n

Boating Under the Influence<\/b><\/td>\n
Boating Accidents<\/b><\/td>\n

A boating accident must be reported to the TPWD<\/a> or the nearest law enforcement agency within 30 days of the incident if:<\/p>\n