Personal Watercraft Rental Program

Idaho requires specific education to rent a personal watercraft.  The rental business is required to deliver the education to each person who will ride the rental.  In addition, Idaho requires each person "driving" the craft to carry a verification wallet card when they ride.  The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation provides the education materials to rental businesses free of charge.  Here is a brief description of the program:

• A Coast Guard approved Type I, II, III, or V Personal Flotation Device (PFD) must be provided for each individual riding or operating the PWC. The life jacket must be in good condition, with no rips or tears, and must fit the wearer. Each person riding a PWC must wear their life jacket at all times.
• The business must provide instruction for each individual who will operate the PWC on Idaho Boating Laws and Rules, as well as safe operation of the vessel.
• As part of this education, you must show the “Play It Safe” video produced by the Personal Watercraft Industry Association, going over the “Personal Watercraft Laws and Safe Operation” form (IDPR Form 50.13) with the renter, and having them sign and carry with them at all times the “Renters Acknowledgement of Education” card.
• Each PWC for rent must display the “Personal Watercraft Laws for Idaho” decal in a location easily visible from the operator’s position. 

If you would like to view the “Play It Safe” video, you can access it through the Personal Watercraft Industry Association’s website at www.pwia.org. The video is approximately 10 minutes long.

The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation provides you with all the necessary forms, videos, and cards at no cost to you. To receive these supplies, please contact the Boating Program Specialist.

For information on free public boating education classes, click here.