So You Wanna Be a California Jet Ski Jockey? Age Ain't Nothing But a Number (Except When It Is)
Ah, California. Land of sunshine, beaches, and the undeniable urge to blast across the water on a jet ski like a glistening missile. But hold on there, Maverick (or should I say, Mini-verick?), before you ditch the sunscreen and grab the throttle, there's a little hurdle called age restrictions.
Buckle Up, Buttercup: The Legal Lowdown
California, in its infinite wisdom (and concern for your safety and the safety of others), requires you to be 16 years old or older to legally operate a jet ski, also known as a personal watercraft (PWC). Yeah, I know, dreams of jet ski dominance slightly squashed. But hey, think of it this way: wiping out at 40 mph is a whole lot less fun when you're still rocking braces.
But wait! There's more! California also has a Boater Card requirement that's been phasing in by age over the past few years. As of right now, in May 2024, if you're 60 years old or younger, you'll need this nifty little card to skipper a jet ski or any other motorized boat with over 15 horsepower. Think of it as your official "California's Coolest Captain" certificate.
So, What if I'm Under 16? Don't Burst My Bubble Just Yet!
Don't worry, your jet ski dreams aren't entirely sunk. California does allow 12 to 15-year-olds to take the wheel of a jet ski, but with some key conditions:
- You gotta have a responsible adult by your side, at least 18 years old and sporting a valid Boater Card. They're basically your jet ski sensei, there to keep you from becoming a viral blooper reel.
- This adult supervisor needs to be onboard with you, not just chilling on a beach towel with a margarita. So, no ditching the grown-up for a joyride!
Basically, Be Safe, Be Smart, and Don't Be That Guy (or Gal)
Look, jet skis are a blast, but they're also powerful machines. Operating one requires maturity and a healthy dose of common sense. So, follow the rules, respect the water, and you'll be out there carving up waves like a pro (or at least a semi-pro with a cool supervisor) in no time.
Remember: Don't be that guy who wipes out in front of a crowded beach, blames it on a rogue dolphin, and ends up needing a coast guard rescue. Be the jet ski rider everyone admires (or at least mildly tolerates).
Now, go forth and conquer those California waves (safely and legally, of course)!
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