What does this boat need?
Federal carriage requirements, with the rule behind each one.
About the boat
Enclosed engine or fuel space
7 items
Registration and numbering
Required
Boats with propulsion machinery must be state registered or Coast Guard documented. The ORIGINAL certificate must be aboard. Numbers at least 3 inches, plain block, contrasting, on each side of the forward half, with the validation sticker within 6 inches.
33 CFR 173 · Vessel Safety Check Manual 3-3 to 3-4
One wearable Type I, II, III or V for each person aboard, 4 needed. USCG approved, good and serviceable, correct size for the intended wearer, and readily accessible. Not in bags, locked or closed compartments, or under gear.
33 CFR 175 · Vessel Safety Check Manual 3-5 to 3-12
Throwable flotation
Required
One Type IV throwable (cushion, ring buoy or horseshoe), immediately available. Required at 16 ft and over, except canoes and kayaks.
33 CFR 175 · Vessel Safety Check Manual 3-5
Children under 13
Check your state
Must WEAR an approved life jacket on a vessel underway, unless below decks or in an enclosed cabin. A differing state rule wins on that state's waters. Inflatables are approved only for persons 16 and older.
33 CFR 175 · Vessel Safety Check Manual 3-6
Visual distress signals
Conditional
Not federally required on these waters. Required on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas, and connected waters out to the 2 nm narrowing point.
33 CFR 175.101 · Vessel Safety Check Manual 3-12
Sound-producing device
Required
An efficient sound signaling device. Mouth horns and whistles are acceptable. On a PWC, a whistle attached to the operator's life jacket satisfies this.
33 CFR 83 · Vessel Safety Check Manual 3-20
State and local requirements
Check your state
Your state may require more than this list: a fire extinguisher where federal rules do not, different child life-jacket ages, or a boating safety certificate. Check your state boating agency. This app covers FEDERAL carriage requirements only.
varies · Vessel Safety Check Manual 3-27
This is a reference tool, not an inspection. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the United States Coast Guard or the Coast Guard Auxiliary. It covers federal carriage requirements only; your state may require more.