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New Mexico law sets 13 as the age to operate a motorboat without an adult’s onboard supervision, but the rental operator sets its own rental minimum. Under 18.17.2.11 NMAC, anyone younger than 13 may operate a motorboat only under an adult’s onboard supervision. Because New Mexico State Parks defines a personal watercraft as a class A motorboat, this rule also covers personal watercraft.

Under 18.17.4 NMAC, motorboat operators born on or after January 1, 1989 generally must carry a boater education card. Confirm the operator’s minimum age when booking.

Source: New Mexico State Parks (srca.nm.gov)

New Mexico does not require a recreational boating license, but operators born on or after January 1, 1989 must carry a boater education card when operating a motorboat, sailboat, or personal watercraft. Children under 13 may operate a motorboat only with adult supervision onboard.

Exemptions include people born before the cutoff, qualifying nonresidents with an out of state card, certain government and Coast Guard licensed operators, and recent boat purchasers for 30 days. Rental customers may operate for up to 30 consecutive days after receiving safety instructions, signing the dockside checklist, and keeping it onboard. A course completion certificate serves as a temporary card for 45 days. New Mexico State Parks administers the program.

Source: New Mexico State Parks (emnrd.nm.gov)

New Mexico’s best boating waters range from broad desert reservoirs to mountain lakes and river fed coves. In southern New Mexico, Elephant Butte Lake is the state’s largest lake, with sandy beaches and room for many types of watercraft. In the northwest, Navajo Lake serves motorboats, paddlers, water skiers and sailors. Near Tucumcari, Conchas Lake offers secluded coves, canyons, beaches, and long sections of the Conchas and South Canadian river arms. In the northern mountains, Heron Lake is a quiet, no wake lake suited to paddle craft and sailing. Review current lake and ramp conditions before setting out.

Source: New Mexico State Parks Division (emnrd.nm.gov)

New Mexico’s leading boating destinations include Elephant Butte Lake, the state’s largest state park with beaches and room for many kinds of watercraft; Navajo Lake near Navajo Dam, the state’s second largest lake with marinas and varied boating; Conchas Lake northwest of Tucumcari, known for secluded coves, canyons and sandy beaches; Ute Lake at Logan, a nearly 13 mile reservoir offering several water sports; and Heron Lake, a quiet lake suited to paddling and sailing. Review park alerts before visiting because lake and ramp conditions can change.

Source: New Mexico State Parks Division (emnrd.nm.gov)