The 411 on the Boater's Safety Certification

Whether you own your own boat or you're renting from the best watercraft rental company at the Lake of the Ozarks, all boat operators are required to successfully pass the Missouri Boater Education class and test. Safety is the foundation for a fun day out on the water. The Lake of the Ozarks best boat dealer has all the information you need to know to obtain your boater certification card. However, even if you are not required to obtain a boater certification card, it is never a bad idea to brush up on boating safety, especially if you have just purchased a new boat from Iguana Boat Sales.

Who is required to have a boat certification card?

The Missouri State Highway Patrol Water Patrol Division requires that any person born after January 1, 1984 must successfully complete a NASBLA (National Association of State Boating Law Administrators) approved boating education course before operating any motorized vessel on Missouri lakes (including rentals). The law went into effect for Missouri residents on January 1, 2005, and January 1, 2006, for non-Missouri residents. 

How do I get my boater certification?

First, you must take a NASBLA approved course. This includes courses administered by the Missouri State Highway Patrol - Water Patrol Division, US Coast Guard, US Power Squadrons and Boat-Ed (an online boater education website). The Water Patrol Division offers classes around the state of Missouri at various times and locations. To find class times and locations, visit https://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/WP02Web/app/safetyEdClasses. 

Who can take the boater education course?

Anyone wanting to operate a boat or personal watercraft should take a boater education course. There is no age limit on who can take the course, however, that person should be able to follow the course material and understand its meaning. Missouri law states that boat operators must be 14 years or older unless accompanied by an adult. Anyone born after January 1, 1984, also must carry their boater certification card and a photo ID. 

Is a boater education card needed to rent a boat/PWC?

Yes, the law applies to anyone operating the vessel whether it is owned or rented. 

Are old cards still valid?

Yes, old cardstock cards are still valid, however, it is recommended to laminate the card or place it in a waterproof container to keep it from getting wet. Please note, all records related to education courses prior to 1999 were purged. If you have lost your card and it was completed prior to 1999, it is required to take another course and purchase a new card. 

Safe Boating 

Although it is not boating season, now is the perfect time to brush up on your boating safety and complete the boating education courses, if you have not done so already. We love our customers and their safety is a priority for us. The best boat dealership at the Lake of the Ozarks recommends that everyone take education classes prior to purchasing and operating a boat. We want to make sure that when you purchase a boat from Iguana Boat Sales that you can enjoy it for years to comes, which means practicing safe boating and learning the rules of the water. 

573-355-5027

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4363 Osage Beach Parkway, Osage Beach, MO

Obtaining Your Boater Education Card In Missouri

Whether you own your own boat or you're renting from the best watercraft rental company at the Lake of the Ozarks, all boat operators are required to successfully pass the Missouri Boater Education class/test. Safety is the most important aspect of a fun day out on the water. The Lake of the Ozarks best new boat dealer has all the information you need to know to obtain your boater certification card. However, even if you are not required to obtain a boater certification card, it is never a bad idea to brush up on boating safety, especially if you have just purchased a new boat from Iguana Boat Sales.

Who is required to have a boat certification card?

According to the law, any person born after January 1, 1984 must successfully complete a NASBLA (National Association of State Boating Law Administrators) approved boating education course before operating any motorized vessel on Missouri lakes (including rentals). The law went into effect for Missouri residents on January 1, 2005 and January 1, 2006 for non-Missouri residents. 

How do I get my boater certification?

First, you must take a NASBLA approved course. This includes courses administered by the Missouri State Highway Patrol - Water Patrol Division, US Coast Guard, US Power Squadrons and Boat-Ed (an online boater education website). The Water Patrol Division offers classes around the state of Missouri at various times and locations. To find class times and locations, visit https://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/WP02Web/app/safetyEdClasses. 

Who can take the boater education course?

Anyone wanting to operate a boat should take a boater education course. There is no age limit on who can take the course, however, that person should be able to follow the course material and understand its meaning. Missouri law states that boat operators must be 14 years or older unless accompanied by an adult. Anyone born after January 1, 1984 also must carry their boater certification card and a photo ID. 

Does operating a personal watercraft require a boater education card?

Yes, a boater certification card is need to operate any type of motorized vessel on Missouri lakes. 

Is a boater education card needed to rent a boat/PWC?

Yes, the law applies to anyone operating the vessel whether it is owned or rented. 

Are old cards still valid?

Yes, old cardstock cards are still valid, however, it is recommended to laminate the card or place it in a waterproof container to keep it from getting wet. Please not, all records related to education courses prior to 1999 were purged. If you have lost your card and it was completed prior to 1999, it is required to take another course and purchase a new card. 

Although it is not the boating season, now is the perfect time to brush up on your boating safety and complete the boating education courses, if you have not done so already. We love our customers and their safety is our top priority. The best boat dealership at the Lake of the Ozarks recommends that everyone take education classes prior to purchasing and operating a boat. We want to make sure that when you purchase a boat from Iguana Boat Sales that you can enjoy it for years to comes, which means practicing safe boating and learning the rules of the water. 

573-355-5027

Check out our Website:

Iguana Boat Sales

Like us on Facebook

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4363 Osage Beach Parkway, Osage Beach, MO

Obtaining Your Boater's Safety Education Certificate

Safety is the most important aspect of boating for you and your family. Getting your Missouri boaters safety license is an important step to take before hitting the Lake this spring. The #1 boat dealer at the Lake of the Ozarks recommends brushing up on boater's safety tips even if you aren't required to obtain a license. You can never be too safe - especially after investing in a brand new boat! Here are some things you can do to study for your Missouri boater's safety exam!

Who needs a Boater's Safety Certification?

The Missouri Water Patrol Requires everyone who is born after January 1st, 1984 to obtain a Certification for Boater Safety before they can safely operate a watercraft in Missouri. However, it is highly encouraged for everyone to study and take the course so that all boaters are as safe as possible on the water.

What's in the Course?

The boater's safety course covers many aspects of safe watercraft travel and entertainment, from checking your vessel for any maintenance problems to understanding the right-of-way passage for other boats. There are 6 total units of study. We've compiled a list below that briefly details each field:

1. Before Getting Underway

 This chapter is all about getting to know your boat, including an overview of boats, types of engines, fueling the watercraft, knot tying, and maintenance.

2. Getting Out on the Water 

In this section, you'll learn how to put the boat in the water. You'll also become familiar with slipping off the trailer, navigation in day/nighttime conditions using sight/sound signals, and navigation rules. 

3. Navigation & Safe Operation 

Understanding how to safely navigate the waterways is this chapters focus. It covers anchoring, navigation systems, changing water levels, ignition safety, and avoiding jet stream/propeller strike injuries.

4. Missouri's Legal Requirements of Boating 

Missouri has its own laws governing the waterways. This chapter covers boating identification, who can operate the vessel, unlawful operation, and rules regarding personal flotation devices/safety concerns.

5. Boating Emergencies

This chapter summarizes proper risk management, rescue techniques, avoiding collisions, running aground, Injuries, and summoning help. 

6. Enjoying Water Sports

Finally, the study guide will cover the responsibilities of the boat operator, fishing, hunting, skiing, tubing, and paddle craft operation.

Taking the Test

As you study each chapter, you'll have the opportunity to take quizzes to make sure you have the information down before moving on to the next chapter. It may seem slow moving and take some time to finish, but the information can save your boat and even your life! After you finish studying and are ready to take the test, make sure you have plenty of time -  you only have 2 chances to take the final. The test is long, usually taking around 3 hours to complete. If you fail the second time, you must take the entire course over again.

Cost

The good news is that until you pass the course it is entirely free. Once passed, you pay $24.50 for the course fee, and you are given immediate access to a temporary certification card. If you want a permanent card to keep on your person, there is an additional $17.00 state fee. The boaters safety education certificate is good for life, so if you lose your card, no worries, just visit the State Water Patrol's website and fill out the online form.

Iguana Wants Everyone to be Safe at the Lake of the Ozarks!

We love our customers and their safety is our top priority. The best marine dealership in Lake of the Ozarks has seen marked improvement in the capabilities of individuals who take the boaters safety exam. We want to make sure that when you purchase a boat from us, you can enjoy it years from now - that means practicing safer boating, and learning the rules of the water. 

573-355-5027
Check out our Website
Iguana Boat Sales
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