Boat insurance in Texas

Registration

Texas Parks and Wildlife requires registration for all motorized vessels regardless of length, non-motorized vessels 14 feet or longer, and documented vessels on Texas public water. Registration is valid for two years. Canoes, kayaks and other small non-motorized boats under 14 feet are exempt unless a motor is added.

TPWD's registration rules don't include proof of insurance, but marinas and lenders commonly require it.

Hurricane planning

If you keep a boat on the coast, ask how your policy handles named storms: whether it pays to haul out or move the boat, whether a separate named-storm deductible applies, and what your marina requires.

Who will drive the boat matters

Texas requires anyone born on or after September 1, 1993, to complete boater education before operating a PWC, a boat with a motor over 15 horsepower, or a sailboat over 14 feet on public water, unless an exemption applies. No one under 13 may operate a PWC or a motorboat over 15 horsepower without someone 18 or older on board supervising.

When you quote boat insurance, list every regular operator with their age and whether they hold a boater card. Some insurers price operator experience and boater education differently, so ask how yours does.

Liability is where a boat policy earns its keep

Damage to your own boat is easy to picture. The bigger risk is injuring someone else. Texas treats operating a boat while intoxicated as a crime (Penal Code Sec. 49.06), and TPWD requires accident reports when someone is hurt beyond first aid or damage tops $2,000. Choose liability limits with your other assets in mind, and ask whether your umbrella policy, if you have one, extends to watercraft.

Renting your boat out changes everything

If you plan to charter your boat or rent it for parties, a personal boat policy may not apply. Texas regulates party boats, generally boats 30 feet or longer rented for group events with more than six passengers, and Parks and Wildlife Code Sec. 31.175 requires party boat owners to carry minimum liability insurance set by the TPWD commission. Talk to an agent about commercial marine coverage before taking paying passengers.

After an accident

TPWD says operators must report a boating accident to TPWD or local law enforcement within 30 days if it causes injuries needing more than first aid or over $2,000 in damage, and within 48 hours if someone dies. Then call your insurer. Take photos, collect names and boat registration numbers of everyone involved, and keep repair estimates and receipts for towing or salvage.

What to have ready for a quote

Gather the hull identification number, TPWD registration number, year, make, length and engine horsepower; where the boat is kept (marina, lift, trailer at home); the lakes or coastal waters you use; each operator's details and boater card status; and any marina or lender insurance requirements in writing.