Party Boat Program

Rule Changes

Party Boat Rule Changes Effective May 1, 2026

Program Overview

Texas requires a Party Boat Operator License and an annual safety inspection for qualifying vessels operating on inland waters. A “party boat” is a vessel operated by the owner or their employee, rented or leased for a group recreational event, for more than six passengers, generally 30 feet or longer, excluding sailboats and certain other cases. See the full legal definitions and exceptions below.

The Texas Party Boat Operator Licensing Program is a combination of on-water experience as well as a course of study and examination process that complies with the Texas House Bill 12, Section 19A, passed in 2007 by the Texas Legislature. For more details on the law and how it pertains to you, please see the following links with full text of legislation.

Who Needs a Party Boat Operator License?

You need this license if you operate a charter vessel (not a sailboat) that:

Carries more than six passengers and
Is 30 feet or longer and
Operates on inland waters.

Exemption

Operators who hold a USCG OUPV (“6 pack”) or higher do not need a Party Boat Operator License.

Disqualifying or Relevant Violations

Review relevant violations. Some violations disqualify the 25 hour experience path; others can prevent licensure entirely.

Fees

Current Fee Chart

Original Operator License: $132
Annual Vessel Inspection (PWD 1208): $132

How to Get Licensed

Step 1 -- Confirm Eligibility

You are 21+.
You've completed the Texas Boater Education Course (Part A).
You meet experience and violation requirements.

Step 2 -- Prepare & Study (Part B: Advanced Study)

Use the Study Guide Outline and listed references to prep for the Party Boat Operator exam. We recommend owners keep a reference set of these materials on board and for crew training.

Step 3 — Meet Experience Requirements (choose one path)

Training Path: 4 hours observation + 4 hours operation on a party boat under a licensed operator or USCG Captain, while employed by the owner/agent; or
Experience Path* : 25 hours documented operating a party boat with no disqualifying boating violations.

*Note: Certain violations disqualify use of the 25 hour path and may disqualify licensure entirely. Review the relevant violations link before applying.

Step 4 — Take the Proctored Exam (Part B)

Exams are proctored by TPWD examiners only; call (512) 389 4846 or email boater.education@tpwd.texas.gov to schedule your exam.
Exams may be taken up to 4 times in one month. Results are submitted directly by the examiner to TPWD.
Exam Part B is 50 questions, passing score is 70%.

Step 5 — Submit Application & Fee

Complete PWD 1207 and submit with the $132 original license fee by mail or at a TPWD field office. Address and office links on page.

Renewals

You may renew within 90 days prior to expiration; the renewal adds to your current expiration for full credit.
The license may be renewed up to 60 days after expiration; on day 61, you must apply as new and meet all requirements again.

Vessel Inspection (Annual)

Who needs it?

Party boats operating on inland waters must pass an annual water safety inspection, meet capacity limits, carry minimum liability insurance, and have a licensed operator. Vessels with a valid USCG COI for federal (navigable) waters are not required to obtain the state inspection.

How to schedule

Submit PWD 1208 with the $132 fee.
After processing, a Texas Game Warden or authorized inspector will contact you to schedule the inspection and complete the certificate.
Review PWD 1208B Sample Checklist and correct issues before your inspection.

Exams & Study Materials

You must complete:

Texas Boater Education Certification (Part A).
Party Boat Operator Exam (Part B) using the Study Guide Outline and references.
- Proctored exam scheduling via TPWD's Boater Education Office. the (512) 389 4846 or boater.education@tpwd.texas.gov