MO Boating Guide

All motorized vessels operated on Missouri lakes must be properly registered. Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue for vessel registration requirements and procedures.

Missouri's Boater Education Law went into effect January 1, 2005. Any person born after January 1, 1984 must successfully pass a Missouri Boater Education class or test before operating any motorized vessel on the lakes of the state. The Water Patrol Division charges a $15 fee for the boater identification card. Free classroom courses are conducted by marine troopers. An approved online boating safety course is also available through Boat-Ed with additional fees assessed by the provider. The operator of a boat must be at least 14 years of age unless accompanied by an adult on board. A child under 14 years of age operating a vessel with adult supervision would still need a boater identification card.

All vessels must carry required safety equipment as specified by Missouri and US Coast Guard regulations. Equipment requirements vary by vessel type and length.

Missouri boating laws are enforced by the Missouri State Highway Patrol Water Patrol Division. Boating under the influence is prohibited. All vessels must obey navigation rules and operating requirements on Missouri waters.

Major boating waters include the Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock Lake, Truman Lake, Stockton Lake, Pomme de Terre Lake, the Missouri River, Mississippi River, and Mark Twain Lake. These waters provide diverse experiences for powerboaters, anglers, paddlers, and watersports enthusiasts.

Boaters should take precautions to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by cleaning, draining, and drying their vessels between trips to different water bodies.