Operator Age and Education Requirements

The following are requirements for vessel operators on Mississippi waters.

• All persons born after June 30, 1980, must have passed a boating education course approved by the MDWFP to operate a vessel legally.
• In addition, a person younger than 12 years of age must be accompanied on board by someone who is at least 21 years old.
• The boater safety certification card must be carried on board the vessel whenever the vessel is operated by someone required to have a certificate.