IOWA Boating Laws and Safety Guides

Iowa BOAT LAWS

- Under 12 years of age may operate a vessel propelled by a motor of more than 10 horsepower, including a personal watercraft, only if they are accompanied by a responsible person who is at least 18 years old and experienced in operating the vessel.

 - 12 years of age or older but younger than 18 years of age may operate a vessel propelled by a motor of more than 10 horsepower, including a personal watercraft, only if they:

• have successfully completed a boater education course approved by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources

• are accompanied by a responsible person who is at least 18 years old and experienced in operating the vessel.

Persons required to have successfully completed a boater education course must carry their boater education certificate on board and make it available upon request by an enforcement officer.

You must have an Iowa Registration Certificate and registration decals to operate a vessel on Iowa’s public waters legally. Exceptions to registration are:

• Inflatable vessels that are 7 feet or less in length

• Canoes and kayaks that are 13 feet or less in length and have no motor and sail

It is illegal for the owner or person in control of a motorboat to allow someone who does not meet the age or boating education requirements to operate the vessel.   

 Vessels properly registered in another state using Iowa waters for 60 or fewer days within one calendar year do not have to be registered.