Ask a Local Attorney. 100% Anonymous. Free Answers. In some states there is no specific age requirement, in other states you have to be a certain age (14 is often the minimum) and complete a safety class before driving a jet ski. You will need to check the laws in your own state to be sure. In Illinois, a jet ski is considered both a motorboat and a personal watercraft. You have to be at least age 18 and wear a life preserver. You should also get a Boating Safety Certificate from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Department of Education.