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Texas Boating License Requirements

In Texas, the requirement applies to anyone born on or after 1 September 1993 operating a vessel of more than 15 hp. The credential is the Texas Boater Education Card, issued by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).

Who needs itborn on or after 1 September 1993
Applies tomore than 15 hp
What it is calledTexas Boater Education Card
Issued byTexas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD)
Also applies to any personal watercraft and to wind-blown vessels over 14 feet.

Buying a boat in Texas?

A licence makes you legal to operate. It tells you nothing about the boat itself. Run the hull number free — it decodes the builder and model year, and flags any US Coast Guard recall campaign on record for that manufacturer.

Frequently asked

Do I need a boating license in Texas?

Texas requires the Texas Boater Education Card for anyone born on or after 1 September 1993 operating a vessel of more than 15 hp.

Official source: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD).

Compiled September 2026 from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) and NASBLA-aligned sources. Boating law changes, and this page is a summary rather than the regulation — confirm with the agency before relying on it. See the states covered here.