If you’re planning to hit the water in your boat this season, it’s important to understand Tennessee’s boating laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re cruising on a pontoon or enjoying watersports with the family on a Cobalt, following the right regulations will keep you compliant and help protect yourself and others on the water.
Who Needs a Boater Education Certificate?
In Tennessee, anyone born after January 1, 1989, must complete a Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA)–approved Boater Education Course and carry a valid Tennessee Boater Education Certificate when operating a motorized vessel over 8.5 horsepower. This applies to both residents and visitors operating a boat in Tennessee waters.
Boat Registration & Titling
All mechanically powered boats and sailboats must be registered with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). The registration process requires proof of ownership and payment of applicable fees, with renewal periods ranging from one to three years. Unlike some states, Tennessee does not require boats to be titled, though proof of ownership must be maintained.
Life Jacket Requirements
- Children under 12 must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on an open deck or cockpit of a moving vessel.
- There must be a wearable life jacket for each person on board.
- Boats 16 feet or longer must also carry a throwable flotation device (Type IV).
Boating Under the Influence (BUI)
Tennessee enforces strict Boating Under the Influence (BUI) laws. It is illegal to operate a vessel with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Violators face fines, possible jail time, and loss of boating privileges—similar to DUI penalties.
Speed & Wake Zones
- Maintain idle speed/no-wake within 300 feet of marinas, boat ramps, docks, and designated swim areas.
- Obey posted speed limits and stay mindful of restricted zones around bridges and congested areas.
- Surfing and wakeboarding boats should stay at least 200 feet from shorelines, docks, and other boats to minimize wakes.
Navigational Lighting Requirements
- Between sunset and sunrise, all boats must display proper navigation lights to avoid collisions.
- Manually powered boats, such as kayaks and paddleboards, must have a white light or flashlight when operating at night.
Personal Watercraft (PWC) Rules
If you’re riding a jet ski or personal watercraft (PWC) in Tennessee, keep these laws in mind:
- Operator must be at least 12 years old (or have a certified adult on board).
- PWCs must maintain a 500-foot clearance from commercial vessels and avoid jumping wakes within 100 feet of another boat.
- No operation between sunset and sunrise, even with navigation lights.
Fishing & Wildlife Protection
If you plan to fish from your boat, you must have a valid Tennessee fishing license. Additionally, Tennessee has aquatic invasive species laws, requiring boaters to drain all water from boats and remove vegetation before transporting their vessels.
Stay Safe & Enjoy the Water
Understanding Tennessee’s boating laws helps keep you and your passengers safe while avoiding costly fines. Whether you’re enjoying the scenic lakes of East Tennessee or tailgating with the Vol Navy on the Tennessee River, following these regulations ensures a great experience on the water.
Looking for the perfect boat to make the most of your time on the water? Visit Travis Marine in Knoxville for the best selection of Premier Pontoons and Cobalt Surf Boats to elevate your boating adventures!
*It is the boat operator’s responsibility to be familiar and up to date with TN boating laws. This is a non-exhaustive list & Travis Marine is not responsible for any violations of the law based on information in this article.