For more information on the boating laws in the state of Iowa visit: www.iowadnr.gov

Mandatory Education and Age Requirements:

Iowa requires supervision and education certification for the following boat operators:

• Boaters under the age of 12 may operate a vessel with a motor greater than 10 hp (including PWCs) provided they are accompanied by a responsible person at least 18 years of age and experienced with operating the vessel.
• Boaters 12 years of age and older, but younger than 18, may operate a vessel with a motor greater than 10 hp (including PWCs) provided:
  • they have successfully completed a boating safety education course approved by the IA DNR, or
  • they are accompanied on board by a person at least 18 years old and experienced with operating the vessel.
• Boat operators required to have completed a boating safety course must carry their National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) approved boating safety certificate with them at all times while operating a vessel propelled by a motor of more than ten horsepower.
• Iowa also recognizes any NASBLA approved certificate of completion from any other states. This is based on the core standards that are agreed upon for reciprocity.

We provide this information as a service and strive to keep this website up to date. Please let us know of any inconsistencies by bringing them to our attention at once at onlinecourse@boatus.com. Resources for these pages include state statutes, state web pages and state approved boating guides. BoatU.S. is not responsible for any misinterpretation of the law or any change in the law that is not adequately reflected in these pages. Damages as a result of failing to abide by stated law shall not be the responsibility of BoatU.S., BoatU.S. Foundation or its employees.