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Georgia Code Section 52-7-8.3 sets 16 as the minimum age to rent a vessel of 10 horsepower or more; the PWC rental minimum is 16. Unsupervised operation starts at 12, only on vessels under 16 feet, including PWCs, after passing a DNR-approved boating education course.

Under 12, a person may operate only a vessel under 16 feet that is nonmotorized or powered by 30 horsepower or less, with a competent adult age 18 or older who is not under the influence and carries proper identification; PWC operation is prohibited. Operators 16 or older born after January 1, 1998, must pass an approved course to operate any vessel and carry the card. Rental operators set their own minimum; confirm when booking.

Source: Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife Resources Division (georgiawildlife.com)

Georgia does not require a boating license, but people born on or after January 1, 1998, must complete Georgia Department of Natural Resources approved boater education and carry the card when operating a motorized vessel, including a personal watercraft. Children under 12 cannot operate a PWC or boat 16 feet or longer; those 12 to 15 may operate boats under 16 feet, including PWCs, with approved education or a competent adult.

Rentals of 10 horsepower or more require operators to be at least 16. The rental’s approved course issues a certificate valid statewide for six months. Rental course exemptions include Coast Guard masters, valid DNR approved cardholders, and qualifying nonresidents with NASBLA approved proof; the general rule also exempts private lake or pond operation.

Source: Georgia Department of Natural Resources (georgiawildlife.com)

Georgia’s best boating choices are spread across four distinct settings: the tidal coast, north Georgia mountain lakes, large reservoirs and inland rivers. Coastal boaters can explore Crooked River and the Intracoastal Waterway near Cumberland Island, keeping tides and weather in mind. Lake Burton is the largest of Georgia Power’s five north Georgia lakes. For bigger reservoir boating, Lake Allatoona and Lake Oconee offer activities such as wakeboarding, water skiing and cruising. The Flint River provides a contrasting canoe or kayak trip through inland Georgia.

Source: Georgia State Parks (gastateparks.org)

Georgia’s most popular boating destinations include Lake Lanier in the Buford and Gainesville area, known for extensive shoreline, rentals and group outings; Lake Oconee, favored for fishing, boat rentals and lakeside resorts; Lake Chatuge at Hiawassee, where mountain views, hidden coves and more than 100 miles of shoreline draw boaters; Lake Nottely near Blairsville, with marinas, public ramps and a swimming beach; and Clarks Hill Lake near Augusta, prized for fishing and expansive water for boating, skiing and swimming.

Source: Georgia Department of Economic Development (exploregeorgia.org)