Additional Restrictions and Requirements
New Mexico Boater Education Law
Anyone born after January 1, 1989, must pass an approved boater education course or a proctored examination before they may legally operate a motorboat.
Exemptions:
- Possess a valid license issued by the U.S. Coast Guard or;
- Renting a motorboat for 30 days or fewer and have received instructions on safe boat operation and a summary of boating law from the rental agent; or
- Is not a New Mexico resident and possesses and has onboard the motorboat a current boater education card or certificate issued by another state or country whose requirements meet NASBLA minimum standards; or
- Has purchased the motorboat within the prior 30 days, and possesses and has onboard the motorboat the bill of sale or motorboat registration that documents the purchase date
Any person operating a windsurf board or sailboard, or any paddlecraft such as a canoe, kayak or raft that does not have a motor (electric or gas) or a sail does not have to have a Boater Education Card.
Age and Type of Boat Restrictions
The operator of a sailboat, motorboat, or PWC must be at least 13 years of age unless under the direct, onboard supervision of an adult. Even when operating under direct supervision, an operator under 13 years of age must have their Boater Education Card on board.
Rental Boats
The boater education card must be carried on board the vessel whenever it is operated by someone required to have a card. For renters, the instructions on safe boat operation provided the rental company serve as a temporary certificate/card for 30 days.
No person may authorize or knowingly permit a child under the age of 13 to operate a sailboat or motorboat without direct, onboard supervision of an adult.
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