Missouri Expands Boater Safety Card Requirements To All State Waters In 2027

Boating Missouri’s rivers next year will come with a new rule for some operators, as the state expands its boater safety card requirements.

Under the amended law, anyone born after Jan. 1, 1984, and before Jan. 1, 2006, who operates a motorized boat or sailboat longer than 12 feet on Missouri lakes must carry a NASBLA-approved boater safety card or have a boater safety endorsement on their driver’s license.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, the requirement expands to all waters of the state for anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 2006. That means younger operators will need the proper certification not only on lakes, but also on rivers.

Basically...

- Born before 1984: No card? No problem. You can drive a boat without one.

- Born 1984-2005: Driving on lakes requires a card. Rivers don't.

- Born 2006 or later: Have to have a card. You'll need it to drive a boat on Missouri's lakes, rivers, and other state waters.

In-person boater safety classes taught by troopers are free, with a $15 fee for the boater safety card. Classes are generally offered during the non-peak boating season from October through May. The Patrol also offers NASBLA-approved online courses and a one-time, seven-day temporary boater safety card.

Missouri recognizes NASBLA-approved boater safety cards issued by other states.

Boaters with questions can contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol Water Patrol Division at 573-751-5071.