Yes, You Can Get a BWI in Texas—Here’s What Boaters Should Know

We all love to feel the rush of excitement when driving our convertibles, motorcycles, and, above all else, our boats. Texas has its fair share of lakes and rivers that allow boating, and you can have a once-in-a-lifetime experience at each and every one!

Texas Boating FAQs

Thanks to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), we have answers to some of the most common questions asked from Texans looking to earn their sea legs and hit the open water.

Who Has to Take Boater Education Courses, and How Much Do They Cost?

In Texas, you are required to take a boater education course if you were born on or after September 1, 1993. Other factors include whether or not you are operating a vessel with over 15 horsepower OR it's a wind-blown vessel (like a sailboat) that's longer than 14 feet.

As far as the cost is concerned, don't worry about breaking the bank. Fees start at $10 for your basic courses. Additional fees vary after this depending on the course.

When it comes to the minimum age to operate personal watercrafts (PWC), Texas requires the boater to be at least 13 years of age.

Does My Out-of-State Boating License Work in Texas?

Good question. As long as you have your paperwork with you, Texas recognizes approved courses and licenses from all other 49 states.

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Get this, courts have the authority to require you, as a boater, to take education courses if you are too much of a danger behind the wheel (rudder?). This is similar to defensive driving courses when you get a speeding ticket in your car.

Can I Have an Open Beverage While Boating?

In Texas, BWIs (boating while intoxicated) are most certainly a real thing. Better yet, these are Class B misdemeanors and can come with hefty fines for first offenses with up to $2,000 in fines and even jail time.

Oh yeah, and open containers are legal when boating; however, boaters are subject to public intoxication laws, just as if you were driving a car.