Introduction
Mississippi offers boating on the Gulf Coast, the Mississippi River, the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, and numerous lakes and rivers. The Mississippi Department of Marine Resources and the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks oversee boating regulations and safety.
At a Glance
Registration
You must have a Mississippi Certificate Number and validation decals to legally operate your vessel on public waters in Mississippi if your boat is motorized or if it is a sailboat. The validation decal must be affixed on both sides of the vessel, preceding the prefix letters of the registration number and within six inches of the registration number. The Certificate of Number must be onboard and available for inspection. If a registered vessel is sold or transferred, the buyer must apply for the Certificate of Number to be transferred to their name within 10 days of purchase. Registration forms are available at county tax collector offices, boat dealers, the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, or online.
Safety Education
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 legally operate a vessel. A person under 12 years of age must also be accompanied onboard by someone who is at least 21 years old. The boating education certificate must be carried onboard the vessel whenever operated by someone required to have a certificate.
Safety Equipment
Required safety equipment must be carried on all vessels as specified by Mississippi and US Coast Guard regulations. Equipment requirements vary by vessel type and length.
Boating Laws
Mississippi boating laws and regulations govern the safe operation of vessels on state waters. All operators must comply with navigation rules, speed regulations, and operating requirements.
Where to Boat
Major boating waters include the Gulf of Mexico along the Mississippi Sound, the Mississippi River, the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, Ross Barnett Reservoir, Sardis Lake, Grenada Lake, Pickwick Lake, and Bay Springs Lake.
Invasive Species
Boaters should take precautions to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species in Mississippi waters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a boater education card in Mississippi?
Yes, if born after June 30, 1980, you must pass an approved boating education course to legally operate a vessel.
What are the age restrictions for boaters in Mississippi?
Persons under 12 must be accompanied onboard by someone at least 21 years old when operating a motorboat or personal watercraft.