DETROIT LAKES, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has reported a smooth rollout of the state’s new boating permit law during the busy Fourth of July weekend.
Effective July 1, the law mandates that anyone aged 21 or younger must possess a boating operator’s permit to operate a vessel in Minnesota. Alternatively, they can navigate only in the presence of someone who holds a valid permit.
Joe Albert, the communications coordinator for the DNR, stated that there were no citations issued for permit violations over the holiday weekend. Instead, officers aimed their efforts at informing the public about the new regulations. “We committed to an educational approach initially, and that was our focus during the weekend,” he noted.
As the summer unfolds, Albert encouraged those without a permit to utilize the remaining time to become certified. The permit requirement will gradually expand to cover more age groups, with residents aged 26 and younger required to obtain a permit by July 1, 2026. In 2027, the requirement will extend to those aged 31 and younger, and by 2028, all boaters aged 41 and younger will need to be permitted.
Acquiring the operator’s permit involves completing an online course that typically takes between six to eight hours to finish, alongside a fee of $35. The coursework covers essential topics, including navigation and operational rules. Participants may take the exam as many times as necessary until they achieve a passing score.
The DNR is hopeful that the educational initiative will encourage more boaters to comply with the new law, ultimately enhancing safety on Minnesota’s lakes as summer activities continue.
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