Jet skiing, also known as jet skiing or VNM (Véhicule Nautique à Moteur), has become one of the most popular water sports activities on the French and international coasts. This boat, combining speed and a feeling of freedom, attracts new enthusiasts every year who want to enjoy the joys of sailing. However, the question of regulations surrounding the driving of these machines sometimes remains unclear for novices. French legislation strictly regulates the use of jet skis in order to ensure the safety of all users of the sea and to preserve the marine environment. In this article, we will clarify the requirements for flying a jet ski in France, the various training courses required, as well as the essential safety rules to be respected. Whether you are an enthusiast looking to acquire your own machine or a tourist wishing to rent a jet ski for a few hours of fun, understanding the legal obligations will avoid inconveniences and guarantee a responsible practice of this activity.

Is a license required to pilot a jet ski?

The legislation concerning the driving of motor nautical vehicles is very clear in France. Let's take a detailed look at the applicable rules and the rare exceptions that exist.

General case: permit required

As a general rule, driving a jet ski, regardless of its power, requires the possession of a navigation license. The license required is a coastal option boating license, commonly called a “coastal license”. This obligation applies when the engine power exceeds 4.5 kW (about 6 horsepower), which is the case with all jet skis marketed today.

A coastal license allows you to navigate up to 6 miles from a shelter (about 11 km), which is more than enough for jet skiing in coastal areas. This regulation aims to ensure that drivers have the necessary knowledge about navigation, priority rules and safety at sea.

Regarding the minimum age, you must be at least 16 years old to take the coastal license exam. However, it is important to note that some insurers and rental companies may require a higher minimum age (often 18) for jet skiing, even with a valid license.

The conditions for obtaining a coastal license include:

• Theoretical training on maritime regulations, safety, signalling, weather and the environment
• Practical training of at least 3.5 hours to master essential maneuvers
• Passing a theoretical exam in the form of multiple choice questions (minimum 30/40 correct answers)
• Validation of practical skills by an approved trainer

Exceptions: cases without a permit

There are a few specific situations where it is possible to pilot a jet ski without having a coastal license:

1. Under the supervision of a qualified instructor : As part of an introduction or an internship supervised by a professional with a State diploma (BPJEPS nautical activities with a mention of motorboating or equivalent), it is possible to drive a jet ski without a license. The monitor remains responsible and supervises the activity within a defined perimeter.
2. Rental with support : Some providers offer jet ski tours where a professional guide accompanies the participants. In this specific framework, participants can drive without a license, provided they strictly follow the guide's instructions and stay on the marked route.
3. In some closed bodies of water : In private and closed nautical areas, specifically designed for jet skiing, it may be possible to practice without a license. These areas are rare and subject to strict regulations.

It is crucial to understand that these exceptions are highly regulated and limited. In the vast majority of cases, a coastal license remains mandatory to pilot a jet ski independently.

The different types of jet skis and the associated rules

The term “jet ski” includes various types of boats that may have different technical characteristics and methods of use.

Jet ski with arm vs jet ski with saddle

There are mainly two categories of motorized water vehicles:

Hand-held jet skiing (or hand jet):

• The driver is standing or kneeling
• The handlebar is similar to that of a motorcycle, but with a vertical joint
• Generally smaller and lighter than saddle models
• Often more sporty and maneuverable, but also more physical to drive
• Suitable for acrobatic tricks and competitions

Jet skiing in the saddle (or sea scooter):

• The pilot is sitting as if on a motorcycle
• More stable and comfortable for long rides
• Can accommodate 1 to 3 passengers depending on the model
• Generally more powerful, heavier, and bulkier
• More oriented towards walking than acrobatic figures

From a regulatory point of view, both types of gear are subject to the same obligations: compulsory coastal license, registration, insurance, and respect for navigation zones. The main difference lies in the use: jet skis with arms are often preferred for sports and acrobatic practice, while saddle models are preferred for walks and family outings.

To optimize the safety and monitoring of your jet ski, regardless of the model, installing an IoT box like the one from Oria Marine may be wise. This device makes it possible to monitor the position of the machine, its technical condition in real time and even to receive alerts in case of unauthorized use.

Use at sea, on a lake or river

The rules concerning the use of the jet ski vary according to the body of water:

At sea :

• Navigation authorized in the 300-meter band at limited speed (5 knots, about 9 km/h)
• Beyond 300 meters, free speed while respecting other users
• Some coastal areas may be forbidden to jet skis (nature reserves, bathing areas, ports)
• A coastal license is mandatory

On the lakes :

• Variable regulations depending on the water bodies
• Some lakes completely ban jet skis for environmental reasons
• On lakes where the practice is allowed, specific zones and schedules can be defined
• A coastal license is generally sufficient, but a river license may be required on some lakes

On rivers and inland waterways :

• The practice of jet skiing is strictly regulated or even prohibited on many waterways.
• When authorized, a boating license (inland waterway license) is required
• Specific speed limits apply
• On some routes, specific priority rules must be respected

It is essential to inquire with the local authorities (harbor office, town hall, departmental department of territories and the sea) before practicing jet skiing on a body of water. Regulations may change seasonally and local ordinances may temporarily change access conditions.

Where and how do you get your license to pilot a jet ski?

To fully enjoy your jet ski legally, obtaining a coastal license is an essential step. Here's everything you need to know to get it.

The coastal license

The coastal option yachting license, or coastal license, is issued by the maritime administration and allows you to drive any type of motorized pleasure vessel, including jet skis, up to 6 miles from a shelter.

Content of the training :

• Steering and route rules (priorities, maritime signage)
• Marks and markings
• Safety rules (mandatory equipment, weather precautions)
• Notions of marine mechanics and engine maintenance
• Protection of the marine environment
• Responsibilities of the captain
• Basic practical maneuvers

Duration and cost :

• Theoretical training: minimum 5 hours
• Practical training: minimum 3h30
• Theory exam: MCQ of 40 questions (30 correct answers required)
• Total cost: between €250 and €450 depending on the establishment and region
• Average delivery time: 1 to 3 weeks

Authorized centers :The training and the exam must be carried out at an institution approved by the State. There are several types of structures:

• Specialized school boat
• Nautical clubs
• Maritime training centers
• Some jet ski professionals offering training

To register, simply contact an approved institution and provide:

• An identity document
• 2 identity photos
• An electronic tax stamp (€78 in 2023)
• A medical certificate of less than 6 months for people with disabilities

Tips for passing the exam

Here are some recommendations to maximize your chances of success:

Theoretical preparation :

• Attend all training sessions
• Get a coastal license preparation manual
• Use applications and websites offering training MCQs
• Familiarize yourself with nautical terms and marine signs
• Regularly review priority rules, which are often sources of error

Practical preparation :

• Do not hesitate to ask for additional hours of practice if necessary.
• Focus on docking and manoeuvring
• Practice evaluating distances and speeds
• Learn to anticipate the behavior of other users

Recommended resources :

• Mobile applications dedicated to coastal permits
• Up-to-date regulatory preparation manuals
• Explanatory videos available online
• Discussion forums to exchange with other candidates

On exam day, arrive refreshed and early. Read each question carefully before answering and do not hesitate to check your answers before validating.

What are the risks of flying a jet ski without a license?

Sailing without the required license exposes you to significant penalties and can have serious consequences in the event of an accident.

Penalties provided by law

Violations of nautical license regulations are severely punished:

Fines and other administrative sanctions :

• Fixed fine of €135 for lack of license (4th class ticket)
• In case of recidivism or aggravating circumstances, the fine may be increased up to 1500€
• Immediate immobilization of the machine
• Withdrawal of the right to sail for a specific period
• Possible confiscation of the jet ski in case of repeated offenses

In the event of an accident or dangerous behavior :

• If an accident occurs while driving without a license, the penalties are considerably increased
• Fine of up to several thousand euros
• Possible prison sentence (up to 1 year) in case of injury or danger to others
• Civil liability incurred, with the risk of having to pay damages to the victims
• Refusal of insurance compensation, which may turn against the driver at fault

Beyond legal sanctions, it should be remembered that flying without a license often means navigating without essential safety knowledge, which considerably increases the risk of accidents. Maritime authorities (maritime police, maritime affairs, customs) regularly carry out checks, particularly in summer and in areas with high tourist numbers.

For jet ski owners, the use of a tracking system such as the one proposed by Oria Marine makes it possible to document the use of the machine and can constitute evidence in the event of a dispute or theft.

Jet ski safety tips

Even with the license in your pocket, safety remains essential when practicing jet skiing. Here are the essential equipment and the rules of good conduct to respect.

Mandatory equipment

The regulations require several safety equipment for jet skiing:

Life jacket (or buoyancy aid) :

• Mandatory for the pilot and all passengers
• Must be approved and adapted to the weight of each person
• Must be worn and properly fastened at all times

Kill switch :

• Device connecting the pilot to the engine that automatically shuts off the engine in the event of a fall
• Must be attached to the pilot's wrist or vest
• Mandatory and essential to avoid serious accidents

Other mandatory equipment :

• Towing device
• Light tracking device (waterproof flashlight or mini-flares)
• Traffic mirror (for models approved for more than one person)
• Drying device (scoop, bucket or pump) if the boat is not self-emptying
• Recommended first aid kit
• Means of communication (VHF, waterproof telephone) strongly recommended

Best practices

For a responsible and safe practice, here are the essential rules to respect:

Respect for distances :

• Sailing more than 300 meters from marked bathing areas
• Within 300 meters from shore, speed limited to 5 knots (about 9 km/h)
• Safety distance from other boats (50 meters minimum)
• Prohibition to navigate in channels reserved for ships and in port areas except to access them

Regulated speed :

• Adapting speed to visibility, sea state and traffic density
• Respect for speed limits specific to certain areas
• Prohibition of sudden accelerations near other users

Responsible browsing :

• Check the weather conditions before each trip
• Practice not recommended in strong winds or rough seas
• Daytime navigation only (except for special exceptions)
• Information to a loved one about the planned itinerary and estimated time of return
• Respect for the environment: avoid sensitive areas (seagrass beds, spawning grounds)
• Avoid noise pollution, especially near the coast
• Never sail under the influence of alcohol or narcotics

The use of a connected box like that of Oria Marine offers additional security by allowing you to track your position, to be alerted in the event of a drift or flight, and even to benefit from assistance in the event of a failure.

FAQS

Can I drive a jet ski without a license if I am a minor?No, even supervised by an adult with a license, a minor cannot pilot a jet ski without a license. To fly, he must be at least 16 years old and have his own coastal license.

What is the minimum age to get a jet ski license?The legal minimum age to get a coastal license is 16. However, a minor must have parental permission to enroll in the training.

Can I rent a jet ski without a license?No, professional rental companies require the presentation of a coastal license. The only exceptions are hikes supervised by a professional guide or initiations with a qualified instructor, where you will not be completely autonomous.

How much does a coastal license cost?The total cost varies between €250 and €450 depending on the establishment. This price includes registration fees (78€ tax stamp), theoretical and practical training, and the exam.

Is a river license enough for a jet ski?On inland waterways (rivers, canals), a river permit is required. At sea, a coastal license is required. If you want to practice on both types of water bodies, the fluvial extension of the coastal license is necessary.

What is the difference between a jet ski and a jet ski?“Jet-ski” is a trademark registered by Kawasaki, which has become a generic term. “Water scooter” generally refers to saddle models, while “jet ski” can refer to all types of VNMs, including arm models. Officially, we speak of a “Motor Water Vehicle” (NVM).

Can you pilot a jet ski at night?No, VNM navigation is prohibited between sunset and sunrise. Some very rare exemptions may exist for specific events, but they remain exceptional.

Do you need insurance to drive a jet ski?Yes, liability insurance is mandatory for all VNM. This insurance covers at least damage caused to third parties. It is strongly recommended that you also take out comprehensive insurance covering theft, damage and assistance.