PWC Insurance in Colorado: What You Should Know

What Are Colorado’s PWC Insurance Laws?

Colorado does not require personal watercraft (PWC) insurance by law to operate on public waterways. However, insurance may be required if you dock at certain marinas, participate in sanctioned events, or finance your Jet Ski, Sea-Doo, or WaveRunner. Even without a legal mandate, PWC insurance offers vital protection against liability, theft, damage, and medical expenses.

What Are Colorado’s Minimum PWC Insurance Requirements?

There are no state-mandated minimum insurance requirements for PWCs in Colorado. However, if you're financing your watercraft, your lender may require you to carry full physical damage coverage, including both collision and comprehensive. Additionally, marinas may request proof of liability insurance before granting docking privileges.

How Much Is PWC Insurance in Colorado?

Colorado PWC insurance rates are generally moderate, but they vary based on where you ride, how often you use your craft, and your individual risk factors. Here’s a typical breakdown:

• Basic liability coverage: Starts around $100–$150 annually
• Extensive coverage: Typically ranges between $200–$450 per year

Expect higher premiums if you ride frequently on high-traffic lakes like Lake Pueblo or Cherry Creek Reservoir, or if your watercraft is stored in less secure conditions.

How Do I Lower My PWC Insurance in Colorado?

You can lower your premium by making a few smart choices:

• Choose a higher deductible to reduce your monthly premium
• Store your PWC securely (garage, locked trailer, or marina)
• Avoid high-risk activity (like racing or stunt riding—these are often excluded from coverage)

Maintaining a clean claims history can also earn you long-term savings and renewal discounts.

Additional Requirements: Are You Leasing?

If you’re leasing or financing a PWC, your lender will almost certainly require extended coverage, including:

• Collision coverage – May pay for damage from crashes
• Comprehensive coverage – May cover theft, vandalism, fire, and weather-related losses

Keep in mind that different lenders may have their own specific insurance requirements beyond standard coverage. Some may ask for proof of policy before releasing funds, and others might require higher liability limits or additional protections. If your PWC is brand new or tends to depreciate quickly, consider asking about GAP coverage—this optional add-on can help pay off the remaining balance on your loan if your watercraft is totaled and its actual value falls short.

How to Get PWC Insurance in Colorado

Getting covered is simple and fast. You can buy a PWC insurance policy:

• Call us at 1-877-240-4678
• Get a free instant online quote through our portal

Be ready with your watercraft’s make, model, year, VIN/HIN, and usage info.

Colorado Registration Information

All motorized watercraft, including PWCs, must be registered with Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). Registration is valid for one year and must be renewed annually. Your PWC must display two registration decals and a current validation sticker.

You’ll need to provide proof of ownership (title or bill of sale), fill out an application, and pay applicable fees. Out-of-state PWCs used in Colorado for more than 60 days per year must also be registered.

How Does PWC Insurance Differ Depending on Where I Live in Colorado?

Regional differences within Colorado can impact rates and risk levels:

• Front Range (e.g., Denver, Colorado Springs): Moderate to high premiums due to population density and theft risk
• Mountain Lakes: May have slightly lower premiums but fewer storage or repair options
• Western Slope: Varies depending on lake access, frequency of use, and remoteness

If you store your PWC seasonally or ride less often, ask about lay-up or seasonal-use policies that can save you money during off months.