Kids under 16 running a Boat

[bassnomo]

My son is 12 and he runs the boat at launch and trailering, especially when there is no dock, like engineers point. I gotta get him to take the course, cause Green Jeans gave us an earful when he saw us load up this afternoon.
We didn't get a ticket, but I do think they are splitting hairs. I know, we gotta take the course, but just thought I'd vent.Doh

[reb66jr]

I agree my 14 year old has been doing boat duty for two years. It is faster and easier than doing it by myself. We can launch and leave faster than two adults that don't have a clue. I didn't even go today because he was turkey hunting and I didn't want to deal with the wind launching by myself.

[bassnomo]

Oh I agree. He and I pride ourselves on not tying up the launch ramp. He's good at boat duty. I guess they'd rather I back up and let a rope release the boat then have my kid stand at the bottom of the ramp being in the way.......boat course here we come

[feelay]

Mine took the course through their school this fall. Too bad baseball keeps them from being able to go with me.

[bassnomo]

I wish they offered it up here in TN, but we will take it at the YMCA next month.

[duckhunter]

Hi bassnomo....my son got a ticket at lake ferguson a few years back...i did not know about the law, but mr. green jeans would have none of it, lol. We paid the fine.

[river slabs are better]

in tn you dont have to go take a course. just study and go take the test. i cant load a boat any better after i took the course sooo.......

[Stump]

Just another reg. used to acquire more money. Like river slabs I couldn't run a boat any better after the test. My dad let me run the motor when he thought I's ready, told me what to do and what not to do, seemed like the only training required.

[CrappieRadio]

From the MDWFP website:

"Effective July 1, 1997 any person born after June 30, 1980 must complete a Boating Safety Course to operate a boat. Persons under 12 years of age must be accompanied by a person 21 or older on board the boat in order to operate the boat.
For persons who wish to learn more about Mississippi Boating Basics and the legal and safe practices for boat operators, a six hour instructor taught course is available for groups. The Mississippi Boating Basics home-study course is available for persons who are unable to attend an instructor taught course. Most insurance companies honor these courses by offering reductions in insurance premiums on completion.
Effective July l, l998 Mississippi will offer the option for titling boats and motors. This is not a mandatory requirement, however, a more complete record will be obtained for boat owners. A ten dollar fee will be charged for original applications, duplicates or transfers.
For more information related to BOATING and Boating Safety Classes, call 601-432-2182 or write to: BOATING ENFORCEMENT, P. O. Box 451, Jackson, MS 39205-0451."


BoatUS offers a free online course that I believe meets the requirements. BoatUS Foundation Online Boating Safety Course That's what I did.

[Double D]

in Mo. you just take the test online.