Responsible Boater Essentials
Thanks for choosing Boats and Beyond Rentals. We've provided the following information for your convenience.
Boats and Beyond Rentals provides all mandatory safety equipment for all Jet Ski and boat/pontoon rentals at no additional charge. Some Jet Ski operators also choose to utilize wetsuits, gloves, watershoes and appropriate eyewear for additional comfort and safety. These items are encouraged but not mandatory. If you opt to utilize this equipment, it must be provided by you.
new MN law for boat operators
As of July 1, 2025 Minnesota will require all renters to possess an operator's license if you are a resident of the state of Minnesota. If you are renting a boat in Minnesota and are from a different state, your state’s laws will apply here. In other words, if you are required to have a boating permit in your state, it will satisfy the requirements here.
There are three types of acceptable licenses. You will find each of the three options below. (* please note, despite Minnesota law, Boats and Beyond Rentals requires renters to be at least 21 years of age to rent a boat and 18 to be a driver.)
Option 1)
Select the link below to obtain a permanent license that is good for your lifetime. There is a onetime $34.95 fee for this option. This is the preferred option because you will never have to take the test again if you plan to rent in the future. It also satisfies the requirements of operating your own boat.
Lifetime DNR Boating License Online Course
Option 2)
Select the link below to receive a rental specific test that is good for 180 days. There is a $9.99 fee to take this test, but you will need to retake it next year and pay the fee again.
Rental Specific Boating License DNR Online Course
Option 3)
This is a short form, written test, which is acceptable by law-enforcement, but is designed to be a “last-minute” option if you were unable to take one of the above test options. This test must be printed, completed, and given to us at time of rental.
When you sign your rental contract, you are also acknowledging the new Minnesota laws as stated above.
Renter Orientation Video
Any client renting a JetSki (personal watercraft) is required to view the "PWC Renter Orientation Video". Please take a few minutes to review it now to save time at your check-in.
Help Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers (4MB)
It's every boater's responsibility to protect our lakes and stop aquatic hitchhikers!
We all need to do our part to stop Aquatic Invasive Species. Boats and Beyond has attended Invasive Species Training Prevention courses, and encourage you to be a responsible boater. Feel free to check out the MN DNR links for more information on how you can help!
Minnesota Boating Guide
The MN DNR's guide with information about Minnesota's boating laws and regulations.
PWC Renter Orientation Checklist
Are you prepared to safely operate a personal watercraft? Review the Personal Watercraft Industry Association's checklist to find out.
Minnesota Personal Watercraft Laws
Familiarize yourself with Minnesota PWC Laws and take the precautions to keep yourself and your passengers safe.
Minnesota Fishing Regulations
Includes General Regulations, Fishing License information, Seasons, Limits, and other important fishing information.
Map of Public Water Accesses in Crow Wing County
Find public water accesses on lakes in the Brainerd Lakes Area with this map and directory of public water accesses in Crow Wing County.
Map of Public Water Accesses in Cass County
Find public water accesses on lakes in the Brainerd Lakes Area with this map and directory of public water accesses in Cass County.
For more information on how to have FUN and be SAFE on the water, visit the following links:
- Personal Watercraft Industry Association: www.pwia.org
- Minnesota Department of Natural Resources: www.dnr.state.mn.us