Frequently Asked Questions About the Mississippi Boater’s License

What is the Mississippi boating safety education certificate?

The Mississippi boater education certificate (also referred to as the Mississippi Boaters License) is proof that a boater has demonstrated basic boating knowledge by passing an approved boating safety course and exam.

Do I have to get a Mississippi boating safety education certificate (Mississippi boater’s license)?

All persons born after June 30, 1980, must have passed a boating education course approved by the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources to legally operate a vessel. The boating education certificate must be carried on board the vessel whenever it is operated by someone required to have a certificate.

What is the minimum age to obtain a Mississippi boating safety education certificate?

There is no minimum age to take the online boat safety exam.

How do I get my Mississippi boating safety education certificate (Mississippi boater’s license)?

How much does the online boater exam cost? How much does the Mississippi boating safety education certificate cost?

The online Certification Exam costs $29.50—one time only, after you pass. There is no charge for the Mississippi boating safety education certificate.

When will I receive my Mississippi boating safety education certificate in the mail?

Your Mississippi boating safety education certificate will be mailed to your home within 5–7 business days after you pass the exam.

Do I get a temporary card or certificate until my permanent boater’s license arrives?

Upon passing the exam, you will be able to immediately print out a temporary boating safety education certificate online.

How do I replace my boater education card if I’ve lost it or it has been damaged?

A duplicate can be issued for a $10 charge if the student took (and passed) the Boat Mississippi online course. To obtain a duplicate Mississippi card, mail the request with a check for $10, payable to BOAT MISSISSIPPI, to:

BOAT MISSISSIPPI
14086 Proton Rd.
Dallas, TX 75244

Be sure to include the student’s full name and date of birth in the mailed request for a duplicate card. You may also phone Customer Service to request the duplicate and pay by credit card.

Is anyone exempt from getting the Mississippi boating safety education certificate (Mississippi boater’s license)? What are the minimum age and boater education requirements to operate a personal watercraft or motorboat on Mississippi waters?

All persons born after June 30, 1980, must have passed a boating education course approved by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks to operate a vessel legally. In addition, a person younger than 12 years of age must be accompanied on board by someone who is at least 21 years old. The boater safety certification card must be carried on board the vessel whenever the vessel is operated by someone required to have a certificate.