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In California you must be 16 or older and hold a California Boater Card to operate a vessel powered by a motor of 15 horsepower or more, including a personal watercraft. Someone aged 12 to 15 may operate that same class only while supervised on board by a person at least 18 who is also in possession of a California Boater Card. The supervising adult needs the card, not just the years. State Parks' Division of Boating and Waterways administers it. The rental company sets its own minimum rental age, often higher, so confirm it when booking.

Source: California State Parks, Division of Boating and Waterways, dbw.parks.ca.gov and californiaboatercard.com (parks.ca.gov)

California requires a Boater Card, rather than a conventional boating license, for most recreational operators of motorized vessels. Since January 1, 2025, the requirement applies regardless of age and includes personal watercraft. Operators generally must be at least 16 for vessels over 15 horsepower; ages 12 to 15 may operate only if supervised on board by an attentive adult 18 or older, and must either hold a card themselves or be supervised by a cardholder.

Rental vessel operators are exempt. Exemptions also cover direct supervision and qualifying temporary visitors. Approved applicants may print a 90-day temporary card while awaiting the permanent card. California State Parks’ Division of Boating and Waterways administers the program.

Source: California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (parks.ca.gov)

From Sacramento, boat the Sacramento River, the American River confluence, Folsom Lake, or Lake Natoma. Launch on the Sacramento River at Miller Park or Garcia Bend for the main river channel and access past Old Sacramento. Discovery Park’s ramp sits on the American River where it meets the Sacramento River, so either river is available from one put-in.

Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma are separate American River reservoirs reached by road. Use Granite Bay or Brown’s Ravine for Folsom Lake’s powerboat and sailboat water; its upper arms include slow zones. Choose Nimbus Flat on sheltered Lake Natoma for paddling, rowing, or a slow motorboat outing under the lakewide 5 mph limit.

Source: City of Sacramento (cityofsacramento.gov)

Boaters from Sacramento can make day trips to Discovery Park, Sand Cove Park and Hogback Island Access on the Sacramento River and Delta. Discovery Park sits where the American River meets the Sacramento River, with boat access, fishing and picnic areas. Sand Cove Park is the beach stop, pairing Sacramento River access with a nature area. Hogback Island Access offers a lagoon, dock, grassy picnic area and fishing, making it a useful lunch stop during a Delta outing.

Source: City of Sacramento (regionalparks.saccounty.gov)