Heading out on the lake? Renting a boat? There are rules which you need to abide by to keep you out of trouble.

Missouri has specific rules for operating a boat, which include licensing, safety equipment, and navigation regulations.

Boating License Requirements

• Individuals born after January 1, 1984, must complete a boating safety course to operate a motorized vessel.
• The course must be approved by the Missouri State Water Patrol.
• A valid boating safety certification must be carried while operating a boat.

Safety Equipment

• All boats must have:
  • A personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board.
  • A sound-producing device (horn or whistle).
  • Fire extinguisher (if applicable).
• Children under 7 years old must wear a PFD at all times while on the water.

Navigation Rules

• Follow all posted speed limits and no-wake zones.
• Maintain a safe distance from other vessels and swimmers.
• Use navigation lights from sunset to sunrise and in low visibility conditions.

Alcohol Regulations

• The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for operating a boat is 0.08%.
• Penalties for boating under the influence (BUI) can include fines and loss of boating privileges.

Reporting Accidents

• Report any boating accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $200 to the Missouri State Water Patrol.

For more detailed information, refer to the Missouri State Water Patrol’s official website or the Missouri Boating Handbook.