Age to drive a boat in Illinois?

Question

I'm in Springfield, and I've driven our boat on lake Springfield, and Lake Shelbyville (Shelby County) since I was about 11.

I'm 15 now, old enough to drive, have a learners permit also.

The boat is a V6 180 hp, Rinker if that makes a difference.

Answer 1

Here's the law. Check source for more info.

N. Age of Operator:

1. No person under 10 years of age may operate a motorboat.

2. Persons at least 10 years of age and less than 12 years of age may

operate a motorboat only if:

a. they are accompanied on the motorboat and under the direct

control of a parent or guardian, or a person at least 18 years

of age designated by a parent or guardian.

3. Persons at least 12 years of age and less than 18 years of age may

operate a motorboat only if:

a. they are accompanied on the motorboat and under the

direct control of a parent or guardian or

b. a person at least 18 years of age designated by a parent or

guardian or

c. such motorboat operator is in possession of a Boating Safety

Certificate issued by the Department of Natural Resources,

Division of Education or a valid certificate issued by another

state, a province of the Dominion of Canada, the United States

Coast Guard Auxiliary or the United States Power Sq

Answer 2

In Michigan, at least, you can get your boating license at age 12 and can pilot one without a license at age 16. Of course, these are little boats about the size of yours.