Thinking about firing up a jet ski this summer?
Before you squeeze the throttle, it's important to know where you stand legally. Australia’s waterways are some of the best in the world for personal watercraft — but riding them comes with rules. And when it comes to licences, those rules shift depending on where you are.
So if you’ve ever asked, “Do I need a boat licence for a jet ski in Australia?”, the short answer is: yes, in most states. Here’s a closer look at what’s required in each part of the country so you can hit the water with confidence (and a valid PWC licence in your pocket).
Across nearly every state and territory in Australia, you’ll need either a specific personal watercraft licence or an endorsement added to your existing marine licence. The only exception is the Northern Territory, where you’re free to ride recreationally without any formal licence — though you’ll still need to follow local marine safety laws.
Why the extra licensing? Jet skis handle very differently from traditional boats. They’re powerful, agile, and capable of sharp manoeuvres at high speed. That’s why most state governments require extra testing and training to make sure riders know how to control them responsibly.
Licensing In New South Wales
(Source: https://www.jetskisafarisnsw.com.au/ )
In New South Wales, anyone who wants to ride a jet ski must obtain a Personal Watercraft Driving Licence. You need to be at least 12 years old to apply, and riders under 16 face restrictions such as lower speed limits and adult supervision. You’ll first need a general boat licence, then pass a separate PWC knowledge test. Once that’s done, you can lodge your application through Service NSW.
Licensing In Victoria
(Source: https://safetransport.vic.gov.au/ )
Victoria requires a marine licence with a PWC endorsement if you plan to operate a jet ski. You can get a restricted marine licence from age 12, but you’ll need to be 16 or older to add the PWC endorsement. After passing the additional test that covers jet ski rules and safety, you’ll apply through VicRoads.
Licensing In Queensland
(Source: https://unsplash.com/de/@kggc )
If you’re in Queensland, you’ll need both a Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) and a Personal Watercraft Licence (PWCL). The process involves completing a BoatSafe course that covers both theory and hands-on training. After passing the PWC test, you’ll submit your competency certificate at a Transport and Main Roads service centre to receive your licence.
Licensing In Western Australia
( Source: https://westernaustralia.weddingandbride.com.au/ )
Over in Western Australia, a single licence — the Recreational Skipper’s Ticket (RST) — covers you for all recreational vessels, including PWCs. You can apply from age 14, but if you’re under 16, you're limited to a max speed of 8 knots. You’ll need to pass both a theory and practical assessment with an authorised provider.
Licensing In South Australia
( Source: @AdelaideJetskiAdventures )
South Australia requires a Boat Operator’s Licence for any motorised vessel, including personal watercraft. You must be at least 16 to operate a jet ski, and while a permit is available from age 12, it doesn’t cover PWC use. To get licensed, you’ll need to pass a theory-based exam and present your ID at a Service SA centre.
Licensing In Tasmania
( Source: Marine and Safety Tasmania )
In Tasmania, the rules require a motor boat licence plus a PWC endorsement. Riders must be at least 17 years old for the full endorsement. After completing a BoatSafe practical and theory course, you’ll need to complete a separate PWC practical course before the endorsement can be added to your licence.
Licensing In The ACT
(Source: https://region.com.au/the-best-places-to-take-your-pwc-this-summer/286023/)
The Australian Capital Territory doesn’t issue its own marine licences, but if you want to ride on ACT waterways like Lake Burley Griffin, you’ll need a valid PWC licence from another state or territory. The rules of your licence’s issuing state still apply while you’re in the ACT.
Licensing In The NT
(Source: https://northernterritory.com/tours/00seven-jet-ski-adventures)
Finally, in the Northern Territory, there’s no requirement for a PWC licence if you’re using it recreationally. Still, common sense and marine safety rules apply, so you’re expected to ride safely and responsibly even without a formal licence.
So, if you’ve been wondering how to get a PWC licence in Australia or what the minimum age is for riding a jet ski, the answer depends on where you plan to ride. Whether it’s NSW, VIC, QLD, or WA, most states require some form of training, licensing, and knowledge testing to legally operate a jet ski. And if you’re planning to switch states, make sure you double-check local requirements — what works in Queensland might not cut it in Tasmania.
Already got your licence sorted?
Then it’s time to gear up. At Jetpilot, we’ve got everything you need to ride with confidence, from certified life jackets and wetsuits to gloves and PWC-ready accessories. Our watersports gear is designed for the real ones who live to carve, cruise, and catch every moment on the water.
