Missouri PFD Requirements
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
- The Missouri State Water Patrol requires one wearable Type I, II, III, or V PFD
for each person aboard a vessel less than 16 feet in length or any length canoe
or kayak.
- Ensure PFDs are readily accessible. Missouri boaters are required to carry at
least one Type IV (throwable device) PFD aboard any vessel 16 feet or longer.
- Someone being towed behind a vessel is considered aboard.
- All PWC occupants must be wearing their PFD while underway.
Children: All passengers under the age of 7 years must be wearing their PFD while the
vessel is underway if they are not in a completely enclosed area of the boat.
Missouri law requires the owner and/or operator of a vessel is responsible to carry,
store, maintain, and use the safety equipment required by the federal safety equipment
requirements adopted by the U.S. Coast Guard.