← Mississippi boating laws›Life Jacket Rules

Mississippi Life Jacket Rules (2026)

Conditional: Mississippi requires anyone 12 years of age and younger to wear a USCG-approved Type I, II or III PFD whenever underway in a vessel under 26 feet in length.

ConditionalVerified Jul 7, 2026

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Official source: dmr.ms.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Life Jacket Rules in states bordering Mississippi

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

AlabamaConditional
In Alabama, children under 8 years old must wear a USCG-approved PFD at all times on any boat, except when in an enclosed cabin.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: alea.gov · Full Alabama rule →
ArkansasConditional
In Arkansas, children 12 years old and younger must wear a securely fastened USCG-approved PFD at all times on any vessel, except within an enclosed cabin when not underway.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: agfc.com · Full Arkansas rule →
LouisianaConditional
Louisiana requires all children age 16 and younger to wear a USCG-approved wearable PFD while underway on a vessel less than 26 feet long.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: wlf.louisiana.gov · Full Louisiana rule →
TennesseeConditional
In Tennessee, children 12 and younger must wear a Coast Guard-approved PFD on the open deck of a recreational boat unless anchored, moored, or aground.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: tn.gov · Full Tennessee rule →

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