Do you need a license to rent a jet ski in San Diego?

San Diego jet ski rentals provide a unique, fun, and exhilarating experience for men and women of all ages. It’s a beloved watersport, and definitely a refreshing way to pass time on a sunny summer day. 

But before you get into renting a jet ski in the San Diego area, what do you need to know? We’re glad you asked and we’re happy to help assist in providing information. 

Keep reading to learn some important intel on jet ski rentals. 

There are age restrictions

Even though guests of almost all ages are allowed to ride a jet ski as a passenger, the same rules do not apply to drivers. 

If you’re on a jet ski riding solo, you must be at least 16 years old to operate it. To ride as a passenger, you must be 12 years old (accompanied by an adult). To legally rent a jet ski, you must be 18 years of age or older.

There is a designated rental location for jet skis in the San Diego area

All jet ski rentals are located at Mission Bay, otherwise known as the “largest man-made aquatic park.” It’s in the same area as Ocean and Pacific beach. 

There is a deposit required for jet ski rentals

Rental fees may change according to what make and model jet ski you choose, but the damage deposit will remain the same. 

Upon renting a jet ski in the San Diego area, you’ll pay a $500 damage deposit. This fee will be fully refunded if the jet ski comes back in the same condition it was rented in. 

Checks are not accepted for damage deposits. You will need to give cash or submit a major credit card for the deposit.

There are time frame requirements

Jet ski rentals are offered to the public every single day of the week, but there are time constraints. You must return all jet skis between the hours of 9am and sunset. To add, jet skis are only available to rent from April through to mid October. 

You can begin with an hourly rental and go up from there. Additional options include half day rentals, full day rentals, and weekly rentals. 

First time renters are welcomed

Before hopping on a jet ski for the first time, beginners are encouraged to review all safety information. Operational instructions are explained and all questions are answered before drivers hit the open waters. 

Both take-away and on-the-water options are available

With San Diego jet ski rentals, you’re not limited to use at Mission Bay. 

If you prefer the take-away method, you’re able to tow the jet ski on a trailer to another location. If you choose this option, you are responsible for fueling the jet ski.

If you prefer the on-the-water method, you can speed on over to other local beaches and enjoy some leisure time in the sun. Or, you’re also welcomed to cruise the coastline and feel the wind in your hair all day long. 

A driver’s license is required

In order to rent a jet ski in the San Diego area, you must be 18 years of age or older. The proper paperwork must be filled out and you need to have proof of a valid driver’s license in hand. 

A maximum of three passengers can ride one jet ski at a time

It is prohibited to have more than three passengers on a jet ski in a single given ride. The weight of these three passengers cannot exceed 350 lbs. 

For more information on renting jet skis in San Diego, please visit this link.