36 CFR § 3.6 - What are the requirements to operate a power driven vessel?

(a) To operate a power-driven vessel on park waters, a person must be either:

(1) At least 16 years old; or

(2) Between 12 and 15 years old and accompanied on the vessel by a person at least 18 years old.

(b) If a park area is located within a State having different age requirements, then the applicable State law is adopted in lieu of paragraph (a) of this section.

(c) If a park area is located within a State having a mandatory boater education requirement, then that State requirement is adopted.