Missouri Boating Regulations and Laws

The Missouri Boating Safety Certification Card (commonly known as a Missouri boating license) is proof that a boater has successfully completed a boating safety course.

Missouri law places restrictions on boat and PWC operation for those under 14 years of age. In addition, passing an approved boating safety course is required for all persons born after January 1, 1984 in order to operate any vessel on the lakes of Missouri.

Even if not required by law to get the Missouri boating license, many boaters take the boat safety course in order to save on their PWC or boat insurance.

Do your part to make boating in Missouri a safe, enjoyable pastime! Become an educated, responsible boater by completing the Boat Missouri course and practice what you learn.

How do I learn about the legal requirements of boating in Missouri?

Laws and regulations concerning operating a personal watercraft or vessel, required equipment, vessel registration and much more can be found in Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating.

How do I take a safe boating exam and get my Boating Safety Certification Card?

• Internet: You can study over the Internet then take the Missouri online boating exam. Once you pass, the official Boating Safety Certification Card issued by the Missouri State Water Patrol is mailed to your home.
• Video at Home: Study at home with the Missouri video home-study course. Then take the Certification Exam at home and mail it in for grading and certification.

Where can I get the boater safety education course material?

You're at the right place, because the Boat Missouri online safe boating course is the official course developed specifically for the Missouri State Water Patrol. All the required safe boating course material to get your Boating Safety Certification Card is available for free online. Please visit our Missouri safe boating course introductory page to find out about the boater exam process.

Where can I get more information about the Missouri Boating Safety Certification Card?

• Read Frequently Asked Questions about the Missouri boater's license;
• Contact the Missouri State Water Patrol;
• Contact Boat Ed, and we'll be glad to answer any of your questions about the Missouri boater's license or boating license requirements in other states.

Who needs a Missouri boat license, and what can they operate once they get their Boating Safety Certification Card ?

Missouri's boating safety education requirements and laws about operating a boat or PWC are explained in detail on the Who May Operate a Vessel page.