BoatPrimer

Rules

Reference shelf for US boat buyers: registration, safety gear, education, and trailering links to official handbooks and agencies. Outbound links only; we do not cite statutes or give legal advice.

Not legal advice. Laws change by state and waterbody. Confirm requirements with your state boating agency, Coast Guard district, or a qualified attorney before you buy or operate.

Classified references

Handbook, manual, and agency links tagged by jurisdiction, audience, and boat type where relevant.

United States (federal)

Handbook

  • A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational BoatsOperators

    USCG Boating Safety Division handbook (revised November 2023) covering federal carriage requirements, numbering and documentation, navigation rules basics, BUI, carbon monoxide, and related operator responsibilities. Federal equipment rules are described as minimums; states may impose additional requirements.

    Topic: equipment

    Handbook
  • How to Choose the Right Life Jacket (USCG brochure)Operators

    USCG brochure on selecting and fitting Coast Guard–approved life jackets, including carriage basics, child wear rules, and style differences (inherent buoyancy vs inflatable). Emphasizes wear—not just carriage—and proper sizing.

    Topic: equipment

    Handbook

Manual

Agency guide

  • Boating Under the Influence (BUI) InitiativesOperators

    USCG page stating BUI is illegal under federal law and in every state for all vessel types. Describes alcohol's amplified effects in the marine environment, enforcement/penalties, voyage termination, and practical tips to avoid alcohol use while operating.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook
  • Carbon Monoxide (USCG recreational boater guide)Operators

    USCG education page on carbon monoxide risks on recreational boats: colorless/odorless gas, symptoms that mimic seasickness or intoxication, and that poisonings are preventable. Links dangers, accumulation locations, protection steps, and checklists.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook
  • Float Plan Central (U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary)Operators

    Official USCG Auxiliary site for the free USCG Float Plan form and related emergency-guide materials. Encourages leaving a completed plan with a responsible party before every outing so search-and-rescue can start with accurate vessel and itinerary details.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook
  • Hull Identification Number (HIN) Validation & Verification GuidelinesOwners

    USCG Boating Safety state-guidance page explaining that a boat's HIN must meet 33 CFR 181 Subpart C and that MIC validity should be checked. Lists acceptable verification methods (photos, inspection, manufacturer contact, MIC site, NICB) and links Policy #2020-1 on 33 CFR 174.16.

    Topic: hin

    Handbook
  • Life Jacket Wear / Wearing your Life JacketOperators

    USCG guidance on wearable and throwable PFDs, fit, accessibility, inflatable serviceability, and federal child-wear rules for children under 13 underway. Explains performance types/levels and that adult jackets do not substitute for child-sized devices.

    Topic: equipment

    HandbookAgency page
  • USCG Amalgamated Navigation Rules (International & U.S. Inland)Operators

    USCG Navigation Center amalgamation of the 72 COLREGS and U.S. Inland Navigation Rules (33 CFR 83), with differences marked. May be used to meet the Inland Rule 1(g) carriage requirement for self-propelled vessels 12 meters or more in length.

    Topic: operation

    HandbookAgency page
  • USCG Boating Safety – Recreational Boaters hubOperators

    Official USCG Boating Safety Division landing page for recreational boaters, with links to fire extinguisher FAQs, engine cut-off switches, accident reporting, life jacket wear, float plans, carbon monoxide, and BUI resources. Positions education and vessel safety checks as core risk-reduction tools.

    Topic: safety

    HandbookAgency page
  • USCG Boating Safety – Regulations overviewOwners

    Explains the difference between federal boating laws and implementing Coast Guard regulations, with pointers to the U.S. Code, CFR, state boating laws, state guidance, and Navigation Rules. Serves as a hub for official regulatory reference material.

    Topic: registration

    HandbookAgency page

FAQ

  • Fire Extinguishers Requirements for the Recreational Boater FAQOwners

    USCG FAQ on 33 CFR 175 Subpart E fire protection rules for recreational vessels, including when extinguishers are required, length-based quantities, 5-B/20-B ratings, model-year differences, expiration, and maintenance. Clarifies that a 10-B does not count as two 5-B extinguishers.

    Topic: equipment

    HandbookAgency page
  • Navigation Rules Frequently Asked QuestionsOperators

    NAVCEN FAQ on obtaining and carrying Navigation Rules, electronic carriage policy, look-out and safe speed, kayaks/canoes under oars, decorative lighting limits, and accident reporting. Clarifies that the Rules impose responsibilities rather than granting right-of-way privileges.

    Topic: operation

    HandbookAgency page
  • USCG Boating Safety Frequently Asked QuestionsOperators

    Official FAQ covering life jacket carriage and wear, child PFD rules, visual distress signals, sound-producing devices, navigation lights, Vessel Safety Checks, documentation eligibility, and course approval (NASBLA/state). Answers cite the Federal Requirements guide and related authorities.

    Topic: equipment

    HandbookAgency page

NASBLA

Agency guide

  • NASBLA Course ApprovalOperators

    Explains that NASBLA-approved boating safety courses must meet ANSI/NASBLA Basic Boating Knowledge Standards and outlines the conformity-assessment application process for providers, including state launch steps after national approval.

    Topic: license

    HandbookAgency page
  • NASBLA National Education StandardsOperators

    NASBLA landing page for ANSI/NASBLA Basic Boating Knowledge standards (Core, Human-Propelled, Sailing, Power, and water-jet supplement), effective June 1, 2022, plus related technical reports. Also notes ANSI/NASBLA 1200-2026 K-12 PFD Education Standard (effective April 23, 2026).

    Topic: license

    Handbook
  • NASBLA State Boating ContactsOwners

    Directory of state boating law administrators and related contacts for education, law enforcement, registration/titling, and boating programs. Intended as the official starting point for state-specific boating law and education questions.

    Topic: registration

    Handbook

Alabama

Handbook

  • ALEA Boat Certification Manual (2017)Operators

    Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Marine Patrol Boat Certification Manual PDF. Prepares applicants for the vessel exam and summarizes operator certification, PFDs, lights, and BUI; 2017 edition on the live alea.gov URL.

    Topic: license

    Handbook

Alaska

Handbook

  • Alaska Boater Handbook (2014 PDF)Operators

    Alaska DNR Parks Office of Boating Safety Alaska Boater Handbook PDF. Agency education handbook; dated 2014 so statutes (e.g. registration) may have been amended since—consult current Alaska Statutes.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Arizona

Handbook

Arkansas

Handbook

California

Handbook

  • ABCs of California Boating (2017 PDF)Operators

    Official California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways PDF guide to boating law and safety in everyday terms. Based on the Harbors and Navigation Code; agency education handbook, not for enforcement or litigation.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Colorado

Handbook

Connecticut

Handbook

District of Columbia

Agency guide

  • MPD Boating Safety (DC)Operators

    Metropolitan Police Department Harbor / boating-safety HTML page. No official District of Columbia recreational-boating handbook PDF was found on mpdc.dc.gov this pass; agency HTML safety page verified.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Florida

Handbook

  • FWC Boating Regulations (law summaries as of July 2025)Operators

    Official Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission HTML digests of recreational boating laws used in certified courses, updated as of July 2025. Covers operator education, PWC rules, and equipment; no separate statewide handbook PDF was verified on myfwc.com this pass.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Georgia

Handbook

  • Georgia Boating Handbook (2023 DNR PDF)Operators

    Georgia DNR Law Enforcement boating-rules page links this Boating Handbook PDF (2023 Kalkomey draft filename). Agency education handbook summarizing Georgia recreational boating laws and responsibilities; not the Official Code of Georgia.

    Topic: safety

    HandbookAgency page

Hawaii

Agency guide

  • Boating in Hawaii (DOBOR hub)Operators

    Hawaii DLNR Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation Boating in Hawaii official HTML education hub. No single statewide recreational handbook PDF was found on dobor this pass; harbor-user materials exist separately.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Idaho

Handbook

  • Idaho Boating Laws handbook (IDPR)Operators

    Idaho Parks and Recreation idaho-handbook-entire.pdf. Agency education handbook summarizing Idaho recreational boating laws; not a substitute for Idaho Code Title 67 Chapter 70.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Illinois

Handbook

Iowa

Handbook

  • Official Iowa Boater Safety Handbook (DNR)Operators

    Iowa DNR Official Iowa Boater Safety Handbook / Laws & Responsibilities PDF (media 7701). Covers PFDs including the under-13 wear rule and navigation lights; verified live download.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Kentucky

Agency guide

  • Kentucky Boating Guide (KDFWR Fish & Boat Guide)Operators

    Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources Fish & Boat Guide Boating HTML page. Official public recreational-boating guide summarizing basic Kentucky boating information; agency also references a Boating Safety Manual PDF.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Louisiana

Handbook

Maine

Handbook

Maryland

Handbook

Massachusetts

Agency guide

  • Massachusetts Boating Safety GuideOperators

    Mass.gov Boat and Recreation Vehicle Safety Bureau / Environmental Police landing for the Official Massachusetts Boat Safety Handbook and related law summaries. HTML guide verified; a mass.gov-hosted handbook PDF URL was not confirmed this pass.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Michigan

Handbook

Minnesota

Handbook

  • Minnesota Boating Guide 2026Operators

    Official Minnesota DNR Boating Guide PDF (files.dnr.state.mn.us). Statewide recreational boating regulations and safety guide for the 2026 season.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Mississippi

Handbook

Montana

Handbook

Nebraska

Handbook

  • Nebraska Boating Guide 2026Operators

    Official 2026 Nebraska Game and Parks Boating Guide (G1000/H006-2026) on govdocs.nebraska.gov. Advisory summary of state boating regulations covering who may operate, registration, PFDs, lighting, and BUI.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Nevada

Handbook

New Jersey

Handbook

New Mexico

Agency guide

  • 18.17.2 NMAC Boat Act regulations PDFOperators

    New Mexico EMNRD State Parks Division official 18.17.2 NMAC Boat Act regulations PDF. No Kalkomey-style recreational handbook PDF was found on emnrd.nm.gov this pass; this is the verified agency regulations booklet.

    Topic: operation

    HandbookAgency page

New York

Agency guide

  • New York State Boater's Guide (NYS Parks)Operators

    NYS Parks Marine Services publishes the New York State Boater's Guide covering registration, operation, equipment, and rules of the waterway, linked from the official Parks boating page (English and Spanish digital editions).

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

North Carolina

Handbook

  • North Carolina Vessel Operator's GuideOperators

    Official NC Wildlife Resources Commission Vessel Operator's Guide download (PDF). Agency operator education guide covering state vessel operation and safety requirements.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

North Dakota

Agency guide

Ohio

Handbook

  • Ohio Boat Operator's Guide (ODNR PDF)Operators

    ODNR Parks & Watercraft Ohio Boat Operator's Guide PDF summarizing Ohio boating laws including operator age, life jackets, equipment, registration/titling, sound signals, lighting, and buoys. Verified live on dam.assets.ohio.gov.

    Topic: safety

    HandbookAgency page

Oregon

Handbook

  • Experience Oregon Boating 2026 (OSMB)Operators

    Oregon State Marine Board Experience Oregon Boating Safety & Regulations Handbook (2026 English digital PDF). Official OSMB forms library publication covering Oregon recreational boating safety and regulations.

    Topic: safety

    HandbookAgency page

Pennsylvania

Handbook

Rhode Island

Handbook

South Carolina

Handbook

  • 2023-24 South Carolina Rules and Regulations (SCDNR)Operators

    Official SCDNR regulations PDF including mandatory boater education (Act 74): boaters born after July 1, 2007, must pass an approved course before operating a boat, PWC, or specialty propcraft of 10 hp or more, with statutory exemptions.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

South Dakota

Handbook

  • South Dakota Boating Handbook (GFP 2023)Operators

    South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Boating Handbook 2023 PDF. GFP registration and FAQ pages direct boaters to this handbook for registration/numbering, PFDs, and equipment.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Tennessee

Handbook

  • TWRA Tennessee Boating HandbookOperators

    Official TWRA TN Boating Handbook (Laws and Regulations for Boating in Tennessee) PDF on tn.gov. Agency education handbook covering Tennessee recreational boating laws and regulations.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Texas

Handbook

Utah

Handbook

  • Utah's Boating Highlights (2021 PDF)Operators

    Utah State Parks-hosted Boating Highlights 2021 Online PDF (still live). Older highlights guide; boating program now under Division of Outdoor Recreation (recreation.utah.gov) for current education/AIS updates.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Virginia

Agency guide

  • Virginia Boater's Guide (DWR)Operators

    Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources online Boater's Guide, including Required Equipment (life jackets, fire extinguishers, ECOS, VDS, navigation lights). Verified HTML guide chapters on dwr.virginia.gov.

    Topic: safety

    HandbookAgency page

Washington

Agency guide

  • Washington Recreational Boating Laws & RegulationsOperators

    Washington State Parks Recreational Boating Safety Program HTML guide directing boaters to know the laws covered in Adventures in Boating Washington. Verified Parks .gov page; companion Required Equipment Checklist PDF also hosted on parks.wa.gov.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

West Virginia

Handbook

Wisconsin

Handbook

  • Boating in Wisconsin (DNR hub)Operators

    Official Wisconsin DNR boating hub for registration, regulations, and safety education. A standalone current statewide boating-handbook PDF on dnr.wisconsin.gov was not independently verified this pass; the agency HTML hub is the verified public guide.

    Topic: safety

    Handbook

Wyoming

Handbook

general

Agency guide

  • Boat Transportation & Trailering (BoatUS Foundation Study Guide)Operators

    Foundation education module on selecting trailers (GVWR margin, single vs tandem axle, painted vs galvanized), hitch classes, tow-vehicle capacity, maintenance of tires/bearings/lights, weight distribution (about 5–10% tongue weight), securing the boat, and launch/retrieve etiquette.

    Topic: trailering

    Official source
  • BoatUS Boat Buyers Guide (PDF)Buyers

    PDF buyer handbook covering contracts, deposits, contingencies for survey/sea trial/financing/insurance, documentation of HIN and trailer serials, and post-purchase registration/titling notes. Educational association guide rather than a sales listing.

    Topic: buying

    Handbook

Article

  • Aluminum Fishing BoatBuyers

    Outlines aluminum fishing boats in jon, Mod-V, and Deep-V styles from about 8–24 feet. Explains shallow-water and impact-tolerant uses, cartopper options for the smallest hulls, and that price and amenities scale with size, power, and fishing equipment.

    Related types: Aluminum fishing, Jon boat

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • Aluminum vs. Fiberglass BoatsBuyers

    Compares aluminum and fiberglass construction for buyers: aluminum is often lighter, less expensive, easier to trailer, and dents rather than cracks; fiberglass typically offers more stability in chop, more complex hull shapes, and more integrated furniture and fishboxes. Emphasizes matching material trade-offs to waterway and use case.

    Related types: Aluminum fishing, Center console, Bass boat

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • Bass BoatsBuyers

    Explains bass boats as specialized freshwater fishing machines with large casting decks, minimized seating (often two-person layout), livewells, and high horsepower-to-weight ratios. Notes they are not all-purpose boats and that fuel and accessory systems are key ongoing cost drivers after purchase.

    Related types: Bass boat

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • Bay Boats | Flats BoatsBuyers

    Compares bay and flats boats as shallow-water fishing platforms, noting flats boats draft shallower and can be poled while bay boats usually have more V in the hull for open-water runs. Typical sizes are about 17–25 feet, with fishing features such as casting decks, livewells, and fishboxes.

    Related types: Bay boat, Flats boat

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • Boat Buyer's Guide: How to Buy a Boat (Discover Boating)Buyers

    Step-by-step educational buying guide covering boat-type selection, new vs used, certification, budgeting/financing, shopping, sea trials and surveys, then registration, insurance, and taxes. Emphasizes boater-education courses before first outings.

    Topic: buying

    Handbook
  • Boat Trailer TipsOwners

    Practical trailering guidance: match trailer capacity above boat/motor/gear weight, distribute load with about 55–60% forward, secure bow and beam, check bearings/lights/brakes/tires, and practice towing maneuvers. Includes launch-ramp tips such as securing the drain plug and not oversubmerging the trailer.

    Topic: trailering

    Official source
  • Bowrider BoatsBuyers

    Describes bowriders as versatile trailerable runabouts typically 16–28 feet with open-bow seating, popular for day cruising and watersports. Notes the market spans entry-level models under 20 feet to larger boats with mid-cabins, and that rough-water use favors deeper-V hulls with more deadrise.

    Related types: Bowrider

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • Buying A Used TrailerBuyers

    BoatUS advice on inspecting a used boat trailer before purchase: capacity plate and VIN, tire condition (including dry rot), brakes/lights, and matching ownership documents to the VIN. Notes state registration/inspection differences and that a non-roadworthy trailer can add substantial repair cost to a boat deal.

    Topic: trailering

    Official source
  • Center Console BoatsBuyers

    Explains the center-console layout (helm amidships with open walkaround deck) and typical size ranges from about 18 to 65 feet. Covers fishing and family uses, common features such as leaning posts and console head compartments, and notes that ownership costs vary widely from single-engine trailerable models to large multi-engine offshore boats.

    Related types: Center console

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • Choosing the Right Boat: Buying Guide for Recreational Boating (Discover Boating)Buyers

    Educational overview of popular recreational boat types—including aluminum fishing, bass, bay/flats, bowrider, center console, cuddy, deck, pontoon, and ski/wake boats—and how to match type to activities, capacity, propulsion, and trailering needs.

    Related types: Aluminum fishing, Bass boat, Bay boat, Bowrider, Center console, Cuddy cabin, Deck boat, Pontoon, Wake boat, Skiff

    Topic: type_primer

    Handbook
  • Costs of Boat Ownership: Boat Costs & AffordabilityBuyers

    Educational breakdown of upfront and ongoing costs beyond purchase price, including trailer, insurance, seasonal storage (with example per-foot ranges), marina fees, maintenance/winterizing, required safety gear, and boater education. Encourages budgeting activities and affordability before shopping.

    Topic: buying

    Official source
  • Costs to Expect as a Used Boat OwnerBuyers

    Explains used-boat cost differences: lower purchase price after depreciation but limited or no warranty, so inspection matters. Cites typical marine surveyor pricing around $20/foot and mechanic rates, then covers registration, insurance, storage, fuel strategies for trailer boats, and routine maintenance ranges.

    Topic: buying

    Official source
  • Cuddy Cabin BoatsBuyers

    Defines cuddy cabins as boats roughly 18–28 feet with a small enclosed cabin that usually includes a V-berth and head, bridging day-boat agility and limited overnight capability. Notes trailerable designs and uses for cruising, casual fishing, gear storage, and weather shelter.

    Related types: Cuddy cabin

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • Deck BoatsBuyers

    Defines deck boats as flared-hull designs that maximize deck space and passenger capacity relative to typical bowriders, commonly about 18–28 feet. Lists uses including watersports, fishing packages, swimming, and entertaining, and outlines ownership cost categories such as payments, fuel, insurance, registration, maintenance, and storage.

    Related types: Deck boat

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • First-Time Boat Owner's Checklist (Discover Boating)Owners

    Checklist for new owners covering insurance, trailering and tow-vehicle ratings, launch/retrieve, storage, basic maintenance, required safety equipment, float plans, and safe operation. Points readers to state/USCG Auxiliary education courses.

    Topic: trailering

    Handbook
  • Fish-and-Ski BoatBuyers

    Describes fish-and-ski boats as hybrids that combine angling gear with watersports features such as tow pylons and swim platforms, typically about 15–22 feet for freshwater use. Distinguishes fishing-based models with added ski amenities from runabout/deck-boat models with fishing option packages.

    Related types: Fish and ski

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • How to Buy a Pre-Owned Boat from a Private SellerBuyers

    Checklist for private-party used purchases: vet sellers, inspect in person, sea trial, hire a surveyor for larger boats ($15–$25/foot cited), verify titles/HINs/liens, and use a written purchase agreement listing included gear. Warns of buyer-beware status with little post-sale warranty recourse.

    Topic: buying

    Official source
  • How to Choose a Flats Boat: Buying GuideBuyers

    Buyer-focused guide to flats boats for ultra-shallow coastal fishing, commonly 16–20 feet with drafts often under about 10 inches. Emphasizes poling platforms, clean casting decks, hull silence, jack plates, and contrasts flats boats with higher-sided bay boats for open-bay chop.

    Related types: Flats boat

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • Jet BoatBuyers

    Explains jet boats as family runabouts propelled by an impeller in a jet cavity rather than an exposed propeller, enabling shallower operation and reduced swim-platform propeller risk. Typical recreational sizes are about 14–25 feet, with uses for watersports, day cruising, and sandbar swimming.

    Related types: Jet boat

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • Pontoon BoatsBuyers

    Covers modern pontoons (about 16–30 feet) used for lounging, day cruising, fishing, and watersports. Explains stability and deck space as core strengths, and notes fishing-oriented and performance-oriented variants alongside basic ownership cost factors such as fuel, storage, and engine maintenance.

    Related types: Pontoon

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • Sailboats | Sailing BoatsBuyers

    Overview of sailboat types from small dinghies to bluewater cruisers, including monohulls and multihulls (catamarans and trimarans). Notes that intended use dictates design, and that ownership costs include sails, electronics, dockage, insurance, and age-related maintenance.

    Related types: Sailboat, Catamaran

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • Ski Boats | Wake BoatsBuyers

    Covers ski and wake boats designed for waterskiing, wakeboarding, and wakesurfing, including ballast systems and dedicated versus crossover models. Notes typical size around 16–28 feet, higher purchase prices for many wake-focused inboards, and maintenance needs for engines and ballast systems.

    Related types: Wake boat, Ski/wake

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • The 6 Best Boats for Beginners (Discover Boating)Buyers

    Educational article recommending simpler starter craft—dinghies, aluminum fishing boats, pontoons, bowriders, deck boats, and fish-and-ski boats—with notes on learning curve, cost of ownership, and matching versatility to intended use.

    Related types: Aluminum fishing, Pontoon, Bowrider, Deck boat

    Topic: type_primer

    Handbook
  • The Boat SurveyBuyers

    BoatUS Magazine guide to prepurchase surveys: choose an independent SAMS/NAMS surveyor, plan in-water inspection, haulout, and trial run, and use findings for education and negotiation. Covers deal-breaker structural issues, optional engine diagnostics and sailboat rig inspections, and timelines for reviewing reports before acceptance.

    Topic: buying

    Official source
  • What is a Jon Boat?Buyers

    Defines jon boats by flat or nearly flat bottoms, squared-off bows, simple utilitarian layouts, and typically low purchase cost. Lists advantages such as shallow draft and light weight, and drawbacks including a rough ride in waves, limited comforts, and sound transmission that can spook fish.

    Related types: Jon boat

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source
  • What is a Skiff Boat?Buyers

    Describes skiffs as small, open, simple boats with minimal systems—typically a hull, outboard, seats, and basic fishing gear. Covers low maintenance and easy towing as advantages, plus limits on capacity, weather protection, and the learning curve of tiller-steer outboards.

    Related types: Skiff

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source

FAQ

  • First Time Boat Buyer FAQsBuyers

    FAQ covering whether to buy, defining boating style, new vs pre-owned trade-offs, financing basics, storage options, insurance, licensing/education, and starter-boat guidance. Suggests many first-time buyers consider roughly 16–21 foot outboard models such as pontoons, aluminum fishing boats, bowriders, and deck boats.

    Related types: Pontoon, Aluminum fishing, Bowrider, Deck boat

    Topic: buying

    Official source
  • What is a Dual Console Boat?Buyers

    Explains dual-console boats as having separate helm and passenger consoles with a center walkway, typically ranging from about 18 to nearly 40 feet. Describes fishing, family cruising, and watersports uses, plus common features such as walk-through windshields and enclosed heads on many models around 22 feet and larger.

    Related types: Dual console

    Topic: type_primer

    Official source

OEM

Manual

Legacy rules links

United States (federal)

Handbooks & guides

  • A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (Nov 2023)

    Official USCG Boating Safety Division pamphlet (revised November 2023) summarizing federal carriage requirements and safety tips for recreational boats, including numbering and documentation, PFDs, VDS, fire extinguishers, ventilation, lights, sound devices, BUI, and operator responsibilities. The guide states federal equipment requirements are minimums and that owners may also have to comply with state laws, including boater education. Do not treat the PDF as legal advice; use the linked file rather than pasted text.

    Handbook
  • How to Choose the Right Life Jacket (USCG brochure)

    This USCG brochure restates carriage basics (one wearable approved jacket per person, proper size, serviceable, readily accessible) and the under-13 wear rule when underway, then walks through a try-on fit check so the jacket does not ride up over the chin or face. It also contrasts inherent, inflatable, and specialty styles and notes inflatables are not for children under 16 or non-swimmers.

    Handbook
  • USCG Carbon Monoxide brochure (2015)

    This official USCG Boating Safety brochure explains what CO is, where it can accumulate in and around boats (including canvas enclosures, blocked exhausts, neighboring vessels, and station-wagon effect), and practical protection steps such as keeping people off swim platforms while engines run, ventilating when exhaust is detected, treating seasickness-like symptoms as possible CO poisoning, and installing marine CO detectors.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Machinery-propelled recreational vessels must be state-registered

    USCG Boating FAQ states that, in general, all recreational vessels that are propelled by machinery must be registered in the state of their principal use. It directs boaters to contact the state boating agency for numbering and titling questions because numbering laws vary from state to state.

    HandbookAgency page
  • State numbering versus Coast Guard documentation (buyer-facing)

    The USCG Boater's Guide says recreational vessels equipped with propulsion machinery must be registered (numbered) in the state of principal use, with a Certificate of Number carried aboard and the number displayed; when the vessel moves to a new state of principal use the CON remains valid for 60 days. It states there are two methods of registration for U.S. recreational vessels: a state-issued CON, or federal documentation with the U.S. Coast Guard. It also notes some states require all vessels to be registered, including manually propelled boats and Coast Guard documented vessels.

    Handbook

Hull identification (HIN)

  • 33 CFR 181 Subpart C hull identification numbers

    eCFR 33 CFR 181.23 requires a manufacturer to identify each boat produced or imported with primary and secondary HINs permanently affixed per 181.29; a person who builds or imports a boat for personal use must obtain the HIN from the issuing authority for the State of principal operation; no person may assign the same HIN to more than one boat. 181.25 requires a twelve-character HIN with no slashes, hyphens, or spaces (MIC or importer code, serial number without I/O/Q, month/year, and two-digit model year). 181.29 requires two identical HINs: primary on the starboard outboard transom (or specified aft location), duplicate in an unexposed interior location, permanently affixed so alteration would be obvious, characters at least one-fourth inch high.

    HandbookAgency page
  • 33 CFR 181.25 hull identification number format

    eCFR §181.25 requires each HIN to be twelve uninterrupted characters: a three-character manufacturer identification code (or importer designation), a five-character serial (letters/numbers excluding I, O, Q), month/year manufacture or certification coding in characters nine and ten, and a two-digit model year in characters eleven and twelve.

    Official source
  • 33 CFR 181.29 hull identification number display

    eCFR §181.29 requires two identical HINs on each boat hull: a primary HIN in the specified aft starboard location (or aft crossbeam on certain multihulls) and a duplicate in an unexposed interior or hardware location. Characters must be permanently affixed so alteration is obvious and at least one-fourth inch high.

    Official source
  • HIN validation and verification (33 CFR 181 Subpart C / 174.16)

    The USCG Boating HIN guidance page says a boat HIN is as unique as a car VIN, and entering one character incorrectly alters the boat identity entirely. Issuing authorities should verify that a vessel has a primary HIN meeting 33 CFR 181 Subpart C, including a valid Manufacturer Identification Code. Acceptable presentation methods listed include pencil tracing, photographs, physical inspection, a signed owner affidavit, contacting the manufacturer, checking the USCG MIC website, and checking the NICB database.

    HandbookAgency page

Documentation

  • 46 CFR 67 eligibility, required documentation, and recreational endorsement

    eCFR 46 CFR 67.5 says any vessel of at least five net tons wholly owned by a U.S. citizen is eligible for documentation, including vessels used exclusively for recreational purposes. 67.7 requires documentation only for vessels of at least five net tons that engage in the fisheries or coastwise trade (unless exempt); 67.9 excludes vessels of less than five net tons from documentation. 67.23 says a recreational endorsement entitles a vessel to pleasure use only and that any vessel eligible under 67.5 may receive that endorsement.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Documentation size criterion and how to apply (USCG FAQ)

    USCG Boating Safety FAQ states a vessel generally must measure at least five net tons and be wholly owned by a U.S. citizen to be eligible for Coast Guard documentation (most vessels over about 25 feet meet five net tons). The FAQ points applicants to the National Vessel Documentation Center for forms and process details.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Recreational vessel eligibility for USCG documentation

    The Boater's Guide says recreational vessels are eligible to be documented if they are wholly owned by a U.S. citizen or citizens and measure at least five net tons, and that most vessels more than 25 feet in length will measure five net tons or more. It says a documented vessel is not exempt from applicable state or federal taxes or from federal equipment carriage requirements, and may still have to pay a state registration fee and display a validation sticker. A Certificate of Documentation must be the original (not a photocopy), on board, current, and signed by the Director of the National Vessel Documentation Center.

    Handbook

Operation rules

  • BUI blood-alcohol standard and stated penalties

    eCFR 33 CFR 95.020 says an individual is under the influence when operating a recreational vessel with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 percent or more by weight, when operating a non-recreational vessel with a concentration of .04 percent or more, or when operating any vessel and the effect of intoxicants is apparent by observation. 95.025 says that if a State has established a statutory BAC level for vessel operation, that level applies within the State geographical boundaries instead of 95.020(a). 95.001 states this part does not pre-empt a State from enforcing its own recreational BUI laws.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Federal BUI prohibition (USCG recreational-boater page)

    The USCG BUI page says it is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in every state, and that the Coast Guard also enforces a federal law that prohibits BUI. It says that law pertains to all boats (from canoes and rowboats to the largest ships), including foreign vessels in U.S. waters and U.S. vessels on the high seas. When the Coast Guard determines an operator is impaired, the voyage may be terminated and the vessel brought to mooring; the Coast Guard may arrest the operator, detain the operator until sober, or turn the operator over to state or local authorities.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Navigation Rules FAQs (USCG Navigation Center)

    Navcen's Navigation Rules FAQs clarify common operator questions such as look-out duties for all vessels (including recreational boats), that the Rules assign responsibilities rather than absolute "right of way" privileges, and where recreational boaters can find approved education resources when a professional license is not required.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Navigation Rules intro for recreational boaters (USCG Boating)

    USCG Boating Safety's Navigation Rules page introduces the Rules of the Road as consistent collision-avoidance practices for crossing, head-on, and overtaking situations, and links Aids to Navigation concepts plus downloads for Navigation Rules and related federal navigation resources via the Navigation Center.

    HandbookAgency page
  • When recreational vessels must display navigation lights

    USCG NAVCEN amalgamated Navigation Rules, Rule 20, says the rules concerning lights shall be complied with from sunset to sunrise, and during those times no other lights shall be exhibited except lights that cannot be mistaken for the specified lights, do not impair their visibility or distinctive character, or interfere with a proper look-out. The same rule says the prescribed lights shall also be exhibited from sunrise to sunset in restricted visibility and may be exhibited in all other circumstances when deemed necessary.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • 33 CFR 175.15 personal flotation devices required

    eCFR 33 CFR 175.15 says no person may use a recreational vessel unless at least one wearable PFD is on board for each person and each PFD is used in accordance with any requirements on the approval label and, if the label refers to a manual, that manual. No person may use a recreational vessel 16 feet or more in length unless one throwable PFD is onboard in addition to the wearable PFDs. No person may operate a recreational vessel underway with any child under 13 years old aboard unless each such child is wearing an appropriate Coast Guard-approved PFD or is below decks or in an enclosed cabin.

    HandbookAgency page
  • 33 CFR Part 175 Subpart C visual distress signals

    eCFR Subpart C requires accepted visual distress signals for boats on coastal waters and the high seas beyond the territorial seas (as defined, including Great Lakes and connected waters where entrances exceed 2 nautical miles). Boats 16 feet or more generally need day and night signals (or combination devices); boats under 16 feet need night signals between sunset and sunrise, with listed exceptions.

    HandbookAgency page
  • 33 CFR Part 175 Subpart E fire protection equipment (recreational)

    eCFR Subpart E sets portable and fixed fire-extinguishing carriage, approval, accessibility, and serviceability rules for recreational vessels with propulsion machinery. For vessels 65 feet or less, table 1 to §175.320(a)(1) states minimum 5-B extinguisher counts by length, with model-year and fixed-system adjustments addressed in §§175.380–175.390.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Engine cut-off switch (ECOS) operator use requirement

    USCG Boating Safety explains that, beginning April 1, 2021, operators of covered recreational vessels (motorized boats under 26 feet with 3 or more horsepower that have an installed ECOS) must use the ECOS link while operating on plane or above displacement speed on navigable waters of the U.S. The link (lanyard or wireless) shuts off propulsion if the operator is separated from the operating area, reducing propeller-strike risk and aiding return to a drifting vessel.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Federal child life-jacket wear and PFD condition

    The USCG life-jacket page says a recreational vessel must have a U.S. Coast Guard Approved wearable PFD for each person onboard, and that PFDs must be the appropriate size and activity, in good and serviceable condition, and USCG-approved to meet carriage requirements. It states federal law requires children under 13 to wear a USCG-approved lifejacket or buoyancy aid when the vessel is underway, with exceptions when below deck or in an enclosed cabin, and notes state laws may vary. Wearable PFDs must be readily accessible; throwable devices must be immediately available; inflatables are not serviceable unless the cylinder is full and inflator status indicators are green.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Recreational marine fire extinguisher carriage (33 CFR 175 Subpart E)

    USCG fire-extinguisher FAQ says recreational boats must carry marine-type USCG-approved extinguishers if they have permanently installed fuel tanks or spaces that can trap fumes (closed compartments for portable tanks, unsealed double bottoms, closed living or stowage spaces). A boat less than 26 feet with an outboard, portable fuel, and no vapor-trapping areas is not required to carry one. Model year 2018 and newer must carry date-stamped 5-B or 20-B units in the quantities in the FAQ chart; older boats may use those or serviceable B-I/B-II units; extinguishers must be readily accessible, approved, not expired or previously used, and in good and serviceable condition; a 10-B counts as only one 5-B.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Required recreational life jackets (wearable and throwable)

    USCG Boating FAQ says federal law generally requires a Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket, in good and serviceable condition and of the appropriate size, for each person onboard. Boats greater than 16 feet must also carry a Coast Guard-approved throwable device (Type IV), except canoes or kayaks, which need no throwable regardless of length. The page recommends wearing a life jacket at all times when the boat is underway.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Visual distress signal types, exemptions, and combinations

    The Boater's Guide says vessels on U.S. coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas, and connecting waters up to where the waterway is less than two nautical miles wide must carry USCG-approved VDS. Recreational boats under 16 feet, boats in organized events, open sailboats under 26 feet without propulsion machinery, and manually propelled boats need not carry day signals but must carry night signals from sunset to sunrise. Pyrotechnics must be approved, unexpired, serviceable, and readily accessible; if used, a minimum of three day and three night signals is required (some devices count as both); accepted non-pyrotechnic options include an orange distress flag (day) and an electric/eVDSD night light.

    Handbook

buying

  • 33 CFR Part 183 Subpart C safe loading standards (capacity context)

    eCFR Part 183 Subpart C is the federal safe-loading / flotation standards block referenced by USCG buyer-facing capacity guidance. Buyers reviewing monohull boats under 20 feet should confirm required capacity information and flotation design context against this regulatory part and the capacity marking rules in Subpart B.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Safe loading and capacity-plate buyer checks (Federal Requirements guide)

    For buyers and new owners, the USCG Federal Requirements guide (Safe Loading / 33 CFR 183 Subpart C) warns never to exceed the capacity plate's persons and weight limits, to distribute load evenly and keep it low, and—if a plate is missing—to contact the manufacturer, compare a sister vessel, consult a naval architect, or use only as a rough estimate Length × Width / 15 for persons (150 lb basis), never exceeding a marked plate.

    Handbook
  • USCG recreational boaters hub (equipment, education, CO, BUI, float plan)

    The USCG recreational-boaters landing aggregates buyer- and operator-facing official guides: fire-extinguisher FAQ, ECOS/propeller safety, accident reporting, boater education, Vessel Safety Check, life-jacket wear, float plan, carbon monoxide, and BUI—useful as a starting index for federal recreational requirements and safety education.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Vessel Safety Check (VSC) as a pre-purchase / outfitting check (USCG FAQ)

    The USCG FAQ describes a Vessel Safety Check as a free courtesy exam of required federal and state safety equipment by trained Auxiliary, Power Squadrons, or certain state volunteer examiners. No citation is issued for failing; vessels that pass may display a VSC decal that signals compliance to boarding officers but does not exempt the boat from boarding.

    HandbookAgency page

safety

  • Carbon monoxide educational tools landing (brochure, posters, decals)

    USCG Boating Safety publishes downloadable CO education tools for anyone promoting boating safety, including a comprehensive brochure on CO dangers and prevention, printable posters, and warning-decal PDFs intended for placement near exhaust outlets.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Carbon monoxide hazards on recreational boats (USCG)

    USCG Boating Safety warns that carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and tasteless and can harm or kill boaters underway, moored, or anchored—inside or outside the boat. Symptoms can resemble seasickness or intoxication; the agency urges boaters to learn where CO accumulates, recognize symptoms, and follow prevention steps.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Cold-water survival guidance in Federal Requirements guide

    A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (Nov 2023) explains cold-shock, cold incapacitation, and hypothermia phases after sudden immersion and recommends buttoning clothing, covering the head, using the Heat Escape Lessening Posture (H.E.L.P.) while wearing a life jacket, huddling with others, and getting as much of the body as possible onto a capsized boat that still floats.

    Handbook
  • Federal recreational boating accident reporting thresholds and timelines

    USCG Boating Safety states federal law requires the operator or owner to file a boating accident report with the state reporting authority for death, injury beyond first aid, disappearance suggesting death or injury, property damage of $2,000 or more (some states lower), or destruction of the boat. Reports are due within 48 hours for death/injury/disappearance cases and within 10 days when earlier reporting is not required; form CG-3865 is commonly used.

    HandbookAgency page
  • File a float plan before getting underway (USCG)

    USCG Boating Safety's float-plan page explains that a written float plan left with a reliable person preserves details rescuers need—who is aboard, where you are going, and when you will return—and is useful for kayaks and skiffs as well as larger cruisers. The agency recommends including a recent photo of the vessel.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Propeller awareness tips tied to ECOS page (USCG)

    Alongside the ECOS operator rule, the USCG engine cut-off devices page lists propeller-awareness practices: people in the water may not be visible from the helm; account for passengers before starting; educate passengers about propeller hazard areas; avoid bow/gunwale/transom riding; establish swim-platform rules; and if someone falls overboard, stop, circle forward while keeping them in sight, and shut the engine off before recovery—never reverse to pick them up.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Propeller strike prevention and ECOS link (USCG propeller pamphlet)

    The USCG propeller safety pamphlet Beware Boat Propellers… A Hidden Danger states a typical three-blade propeller at 3,200 rpm can inflict about 160 impacts per second and urges wearing an engine cut-off switch lanyard and life jacket at all times, assigning a propeller-area watcher when people are in the water, checking the stern before starting, never boarding from the water with engines running, and never reversing to pick someone up.

    Handbook
  • Wear your life jacket — USCG wear guidance and fit basics

    USCG Boating Safety's life-jacket wear page urges wearing a USCG-approved life jacket or buoyancy aid whenever underway, notes wearable PFDs must be readily accessible (not buried in locked compartments or plastic bags), and explains fit, Type/Level performance categories, and the federal child-wear rule for children under 13 when a vessel is underway (unless below deck or in an enclosed cabin).

    HandbookAgency page

NASBLA

Operator license & education

  • NASBLA National Education Standards (ANSI/NASBLA 100-series)

    NASBLA's National Education Standards page lists ANSI-recognized Basic Boating Knowledge standards effective June 1, 2022—Core (100-2022) plus Human-Propelled, Sailing, and Power supplements—and related technical reports used to design entry-level boating education. It also notes ANSI/NASBLA 1200-2026 K-12 PFD Education Standard effective April 23, 2026.

    Official source
  • NASBLA course approval process for boating safety courses

    NASBLA Course Approval explains that NASBLA-approved recreational courses must meet ANSI/NASBLA Basic Boating Knowledge standards (including Core and Plus Power) and provides the application checklist, fees, and state-expansion steps so boaters can identify nationally consistent entry-level instruction.

    Official source
  • NASBLA take-a-boating-safety-course landing

    The official NASBLA page titled Take a Boating Safety Course says NASBLA encourages boaters to enroll in a boating education course. It tells users to click their state to find out more about boating education in that state and lists the states and D.C. It does not itself issue a federal operator license.

    HandbookAgency page

buying

  • NASBLA state boating contacts directory

    NASBLA's State Boating Contacts directory points boaters and buyers to each state's boating law administrator and related contacts for education, law enforcement, registration/titling, and safety programs—useful when verifying state-specific registration, education, and equipment rules that sit atop federal baselines.

    Official source

safety

trailering

  • NASBLA Basic Boating Knowledge – Trailering supplement (standards panel listing)

    NASBLA's National Boating Standards Panel (EZ-BSP) lists "NASBLA 100.1-201X Supplement - Basic Boating Knowledge - Trailering" among closed national education standards alongside Core and Plus Power/Sail/Human-Propelled knowledge standards. This is an official NASBLA education-standards reference that trailering knowledge is part of the national basic-boating knowledge framework; the panel page itself does not publish the full free public trailer-safety handbook text.

    Official source

Alabama

Handbooks & guides

  • ALEA Boat Certification Manual (2017 edition PDF)

    Official Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Marine Patrol certification manual PDF (HTTP 200). Prepares applicants for the DPS vessel exam and summarizes operator certification, PFDs, lights, and BUI. Dated 2017 edition on the live alea.gov URL.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Alabama vessel registration (ALEA / county)

    Vessels must be currently registered and numbered. ALEA Vessel Registration applications for new registration, transfer, replacement, and duplicate are processed with county of registration (probate/license commissioner). Length-based fees appear on the ALEA application PDF. ADCNR notes Marine Patrol administers registration.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Boating Forms and Permits (ALEA Marine Patrol)

    ALEA Marine Patrol’s public forms page lists boat registration forms including Application for Boat Registration, Transfer, Replacement and Duplicate; Request Certified Copy of Registration Certificate; Certification of Length for Vessels; and Application for State-Assigned Hull Number. New registrations are processed with these Marine Patrol/ALEA forms rather than through a detailed how-to narrative on this landing.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Marine Patrol Division — vessel registration overview

    ALEA Marine Patrol oversees registration of all pleasure boats and licensing of boat operators. Boating rules page: no person shall operate or give permission to operate any vessel unless it is currently registered and numbered. Registration applications are processed by ALEA Vessel Registration (application PDF hosted on alea.gov). Contact the Marine Patrol Division vessel registration unit as listed on ALEA education pages (1-800-272-7930).

    HandbookAgency page
  • What vessels are required to be titled in Alabama? (ALDOR)

    Alabama Department of Revenue states titles are required for any vessel constructed after December 31, 2023 (some exclusions apply) and any vessel for which Alabama is the state of principal use on or after January 1, 2024. A vessel less than 18 feet in length is only titled if propelled by an engine of 75 horsepower or greater (including jet skis, sailboats, paddleboats, and rowboats). Related ALDOR FAQs on the same vessel-titles set state the title application fee is $20 plus designated-agent/license-official commissions, and the owner must apply no later than 20 days after transfer of ownership or the date Alabama becomes the state of principal use.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boating Education and Operator Certification/License

    No one under 12 may operate any motorized vessel (including PWC) on Alabama waterways. Residents 12 or older may obtain a vessel operator’s license (V class on the driver license, or a vessel-only credential) but cannot operate alone until 14. Ages 12–13 may operate only with someone 21 or older onboard who also has a vessel operator’s license and can take immediate control. The certification/license must be in possession while operating. Obtain via DPS driver-license office: $5 application, written/oral exam or proof of approved course/age exemption, then V class. Exam exemptions include USCG motorboat operator license, listed approved courses, or born prior to April 28, 1954 (still must be issued the vessel class). Effective Oct. 1, 2024, nonresidents need a valid home-state/country boater/vessel certification or a Nonresident Alabama Boater Safety Certification.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating Rules and Regulations — BUI and navigation lights

    No person shall drive or be in actual physical control of a vessel or manipulate water skis, aquaplane, or other marine device with 0.08% or more by weight of alcohol in the blood, or while under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, a combination, or any impairing substance. Refusal of a field breath test or other approved testing has the same punishment as for highway operators (automatic suspension of vessel license). Navigation lights must be used when away from the dock between sunset and sunrise and during restricted visibility (fog or heavy rain). Power-driven boats less than 39.4 ft must exhibit red and green sidelights and an all-round white light at least 3.3 ft higher than the sidelights. Unpowered boats under 23 ft must have a flashlight/lantern showing white light in time to prevent collision. All boats not underway and away from dock at night must show an all-round white light.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Boat Equipment Checklist For Alabama (ALEA Marine Patrol)

    All recreational vessels must carry one wearable life jacket (PFD) for each person on board; any vessel 16 feet and longer must also carry one throwable PFD (Type IV). Wearable PFDs must be USCG-approved (Performance Level 50/70/100/150 or older Type I, II, III, or V), in good and serviceable condition, and the appropriate size. All persons under eight years of age on any vessel must at all times wear a USCG-approved wearable PFD securely in place, except when inside an enclosed cabin or enclosed sleeping space. Each person operating, riding on, or being towed by a PWC must wear an appropriate USCG-approved PFD. The checklist table also marks navigation lights required for PWC and boats under 26 feet.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Boating Rules and Regulations — Personal Flotation Devices

    All boats must carry one wearable USCG-approved PFD (performance-level 50/70/100/150 or Type I–III or V) for each person onboard or being towed; PFDs must be good, serviceable, proper size, and readily accessible. Boats 16 ft or longer must also have one throwable Type IV. Children under 8 must wear a properly secured USCG-approved PFD at all times onboard any boat except in an enclosed cabin. Each person on a PWC or being towed must wear a properly secured wearable PFD. Within 800 feet below a hydroelectric or navigational lock and dam, each person including the operator must wear an approved wearable PFD.

    HandbookAgency page

Alaska

Handbooks & guides

  • Alaska Boater Handbook PDF (2014)

    DNR Parks Office of Boating Safety PDF https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/boating/pdf/alaskaboaterhandbook032014.pdf HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01 (~23.3 MB). Agency education handbook. Companion requirement-summary card and AS 05.25 Watercraft PDF also live. Dated 2014; statutes may have been amended since (e.g. registration). Not a substitute for current Alaska Statutes.

    Handbook
  • Alaska Boater's Handbook (Ninth Edition, 2019) official PDF

    Official Alaska DNR Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation Office of Boating Safety handbook PDF (file name alaskaboaterhandbook032014.pdf; title page is Ninth Edition 2019). Linked from the Office of Boating Safety publications/laws pages. HTTP 200 on retrieval.

    HandbookAgency page

Registration & numbering

  • DMV boat registration and numbering

    Alaska DMV and AS 05.25.055 as posted by DNR: boats placed on state waters that are equipped with mechanical propulsion, and vessels used in sport fishing charter activities, must be registered and numbered with DMV. Certificate of Number onboard; numbers and validation decals displayed. Certificate generally valid three years. All boats principally used in Alaska required unless specifically exempted. Boats longer than 24 ft required to be titled unless USCG-documented. Boats not principally used in Alaska must be registered where used. Copy of application may serve as registration up to 60 days (2 AAC 70.150).

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • No statewide mandatory boater education

    Alaska DNR Office of Boating Safety: Alaska is one of the few states that do not require boating education. NASBLA-approved Alaska Water Wise and other courses are voluntary (insurance discounts / reciprocity in other states). No statewide operator license. Not a driver-license substitute.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Alaska BUI (AS 28.35.030; DNR laws hub)

    DNR Parks laws page points boaters to Alaska boating statutes (AS 05.25) and navigation materials. Operating a watercraft while under the influence is addressed in Alaska criminal statutes; official AS 28.35.030 (operating a vehicle, aircraft, or watercraft while under the influence) is published on the Alaska Legislature site (HTTP 200). This row is not legal advice; read the statute text.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Alaska navigation lights (Alaska Boater's Handbook)

    The official handbook states boats on waters of the state must display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during periods of restricted visibility, applying International Navigation Rules 20-31 (sidelights, masthead/stern or all-round white lights by vessel type). Unpowered small vessels may exhibit those lights or carry an electric torch/flashlight as described in the handbook figures.

    Handbook
  • BUI (watercraft DUI) and navigation lights

    Alaska DMV: it is against the law to operate a vehicle, aircraft, or watercraft under the influence. DUI if under the influence of intoxicating liquor or a controlled substance, or breath/blood 0.08 or greater (0.04 commercial). Implied-consent/test refusal triggers license action. Navigation lights (AS 05.25.010(c) / DNR card): from sunset to sunrise and in restricted visibility, display lights of the same number, type, and specifications as required by the USCG (33 U.S.C. 1602 and 2002); international configuration varies with length and mode.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    DNR requirement-summary card and AS 05.25.010: one USCG-approved life jacket for each person on board, serviceable, approved for the activity, worn per label. Persons under 13 must wear a life jacket when in an open boat, on the deck of a boat, or when being towed. Except for canoes and kayaks, boats 16 ft and longer need one USCG-approved throwable.

    HandbookAgency page

Arizona

Handbooks & guides

Registration & numbering

  • Arizona is a non-title state for watercraft

    The official Boater's Guide states Arizona is a non-title state. Proof of ownership is still required to register (bill of sale, MSO, or original title/registration from another state as listed in the guide).

    Handbook
  • Motorized watercraft Certificate of Number

    AZGFD: all motorboats must be registered regardless of size, including inflatables/sailboats/canoes with motors (including electric). Exceptions include watercraft used solely as lifeboats and USCG-documented vessels. Nonresidents may operate up to 90 days with home-state/USCG numbering. AZ number on each side of the forward half, block letters not less than 3 inches, contrasting color; decals 3 inches in front of AZ. Certificate of Number from Arizona Game and Fish.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • No universal mandatory education; youth motor/PWC age

    AZGFD handbook (Boater's Guide of Arizona, 2025 PDF hosted by AZGFD): illegal for a person under 12 to operate a vessel with a motor greater than 8 horsepower (includes PWC) unless an emergency exists, the child's parent/legal guardian is on board, or another person at least 18 is on board. AZGFD education pages encourage free boater-education courses; NASBLA mandatory-education table does not list a born-on-or-after adult mandate for Arizona. Not a statewide operator license for all ages.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Arizona OUI / BUI (A.R.S. § 5-395; AZGFD handbook)

    AZGFD and A.R.S. § 5-395 prohibit operating a power-driven vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including impairment to the slightest degree. The official handbook states a person is considered OUI with BAC of 0.08% (with higher 'extreme' and 'super extreme' tiers described in the guide). Official statute page HTTP 200.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Arizona navigation lights (AZGFD Boater's Guide)

    The official Boater's Guide requires navigation lights to be displayed between sunset and sunrise and during periods of restricted visibility (red/green sidelights and white lights as illustrated). All vessels not underway outside a designated mooring area must display an all-around white light between sunset and sunrise as described in the guide.

    Handbook
  • OUI/BUI and navigation lights

    AZGFD handbook: illegal to operate a power-driven vessel while under the influence of alcohol or any drug that causes even slight impairment. BAC 0.08% but less than 0.15% is OUI; extreme 0.15–0.20; super extreme 0.20+. AZGFD Labor Day safety page: legal limit 0.08 BAC; also prosecutable if impaired to the slightest degree. Lights: required navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and in restricted visibility (fog/heavy rain); red/green sidelights, sternlight, masthead or all-round white per length. PWC may operate at night only if equipped with proper navigation lights.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Arizona life jackets (AZGFD)

    AZGFD: all vessels except sailboards and certain racing shells/rowing sculls must have at least one USCG-approved wearable life jacket of proper size for each person on board, readily accessible and in good and serviceable condition. Children 12 and younger must wear a USCG-approved life jacket anytime while underway on any vessel. Vessels 16 feet or longer (except canoe or kayak) must also carry a throwable PFD. Each person on a PWC and each person being towed must wear a life jacket.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Life jackets / PFDs

    AZGFD Rock the Float and handbook: all vessels except sailboards and certain racing shells must have at least one USCG-approved wearable life jacket of proper size for each person on board. Vessels 16 ft or longer (except canoe or kayak) must have one USCG-approved throwable readily accessible. Children 12 and younger must wear a fastened, properly fitting USCG-approved wearable while underway on any vessel. Each person on a PWC and each person being towed must wear a USCG-approved life jacket. PFDs readily accessible, good and serviceable, sized for the wearer.

    HandbookAgency page

Arkansas

Handbooks & guides

  • AGFC Arkansas Boating Laws and Responsibilities 2024 Edition

    Official AGFC PDF handbook (HTTP 200), also linked from AGFC news as a complete list of Arkansas boating laws and responsibilities. Education handbook hosted on agfc.com; not a substitute for Arkansas Code. As of January 1, 2020, boats manufactured in 2020 and after are required to be titled (handbook cites Act 733 of 2019).

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • DFA motorboat registration and titles for 2020+ boats

    Arkansas DFA: boats propelled by sail or motor (including trolling motors) must be registered when operated on public waters; Certificate of Number and validation decals required. Exceptions: vessels not propelled by engine or sail; vessels properly registered in another state using Arkansas waters 90 or fewer consecutive days; USCG-documented vessels. Apply within 30 days of purchase at a state revenue office. Registrations valid 3 years. Certificate of number must be onboard; numbers on forward half of each side, 3-inch bold BLOCK, contrast, space or hyphen; decals toward the stern of the number, 3 inches from and in line. Liability insurance at least $50,000 per occurrence required for all PWC and motorboats powered by engines of more than 50 hp. HIN verification required. DFA DSMV FAQ: if the year of the boat is 2020 or newer, Arkansas will issue a title; before 2020 there will only be a registration. AGFC: any vessel powered by machinery must be registered regardless of size.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • AGFC boater education certification

    AGFC: anyone born on or after January 1, 1986, and of legal age to operate a motorboat or sailboat, must have successfully completed an approved AGFC Boating Education Course to operate a motorboat or sailboat on Arkansas water. Applies to trolling motors if born on or after January 1, 1986. Age: to operate a motorboat powered by an engine of 10 hp or more, a person must be 12 or older, or be under the direct supervision of a person at least 18. PWC: must be 16 or older; or 12-15 under direct supervision of a person at least 18; or under 12 under direct supervision of a person at least 21. Certification is described as good for life. AGFC/FAQ: can still operate a boat if a driver license is suspended (as stated on the boating FAQ page).

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating while intoxicated and navigation lights

    AGFC handbook: prohibited from operating any motorboat or other vessel, or manipulating water skis or other devices, while under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or both. Considered boating while intoxicated if blood, breath, or urine alcohol concentration is 0.08% or more (if under 21, 0.02% is considered intoxicated), or under the influence to a degree that reactions, motor skills, and judgment are substantially altered and endanger anyone. Handbook first-conviction description: lose driver license 6 months; may be fined up to $1,000 and jailed up to one year; must complete approved alcohol education or treatment. Implied consent; refusal can result in loss of operating and driving privileges up to 6 months. DFA administrative page (A.C.A. § 5-65-103 as cited by DFA) lists DWI/BWI alcohol suspension periods (1st=6 months, etc.). Navigation lights: AGFC FAQ—required if operating at night or reduced visibility; on federal waters only USCG-approved red and green bow light(s) and white stern light visible 360 degrees (Inland Rules); on sole state waters a motorboat's lighting shall be sufficient to make presence and location known to other vessels. Handbook: display required navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during restricted visibility; on Arkansas state waters all motorboats must have lighting sufficient to make presence and location known; federal-water sidelight/masthead details follow USCG pattern in the handbook.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    AGFC handbook: all vessels must have at least one USCG-approved wearable PFD (life jacket) for each person onboard; in addition, one USCG-approved throwable device must be onboard vessels 16 feet or longer. Children 12 years old and younger must wear a USCG-approved PFD securely fastened at all times while on any vessel, except if the child is within the enclosed area of a houseboat or cruiser, or within the area enclosed by railings on a party barge, cruiser, or houseboat, and the vessel is not underway. Each person on a PWC must wear a USCG-approved PFD (inflatables not approved on PWC). Each person being towed behind a motorized vessel on water skis, an aquaplane, or other device must wear a USCG-approved PFD. AGFC FAQ: most inflatables must be worn to count if the label so states. PFDs must be USCG-approved in addition to other handbook conditions of use.

    Handbook

California

Handbooks & guides

  • ABCs of California Boating (2017 PDF)

    Official California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways guide to boating law and safety (PDF). HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01. Based on the Harbors and Navigation Code and related law in everyday terms; not for enforcement or litigation.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • California undocumented vessel registration (DMV CF number)

    Sailboats over eight feet and vessels with a motor of any size must be registered with California DMV. Apply with form BOAT 101 for a Certificate of Number and Certificate of Ownership (CF number). Numbers and stickers go on both sides of the forward half of the vessel; Certificate of Number must be available on board. Manually propelled boats and sailboats 8 feet or less are among the statutory exceptions summarized by DBW.

    HandbookAgency page
  • New Registration — Boat/Vessel

    California DMV states that if you own a sailboat over 8 feet long or a boat/vessel with a motor (no matter the size), you must register it with DMV to legally use it on California waterways. This is the public new-registration landing that includes the Boat/Vessel path.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boating Safety Classes and Courses — California Boater Card

    Effective January 1, 2025, all motorized vessel operators must complete a boating safety course and obtain a California Boater Card before operating on state waterways. DBW directs applicants to CaliforniaBoaterCard.com for the card program, approved courses, and exemptions. The card is issued after NASBLA/state-approved education; DBW states the lifetime card fee is described on the card program site.

    HandbookAgency page
  • California Boater Card

    Beginning January 1, 2025, all persons operating a motorized recreational vessel on California waterways must carry a California Boater Card, regardless of age, except as provided in Harbors and Navigation Code 678.11 (including certain nonresidents temporarily in the state and operators supervised by a person 18 or older who holds a card). Obtain the card by completing a DBW-approved NASBLA course.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Alcohol and Boating Don’t Mix — BUI; ABCs lighting

    DBW: it is against the law to operate a boat or water ski with a BAC of 0.08 percent or more; arrest is also possible below 0.08% if conditions are deemed unsafe. Conviction may include jail up to 6 months and fines up to $1,000. ABCs of California Boating states all vessels must display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during restricted visibility.

    HandbookAgency page
  • California BUI and navigation lights

    It is illegal to operate a boat or water skis with BAC of 0.08 percent or more; operators may be arrested below 0.08 if impaired. DBW states any alcohol is unlawful for persons under 21. Conviction may include up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,000. Required navigation lights must be displayed between sunset and sunrise (H&N / Title 14 lighting rules cited in DBW Quick Codes).

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • California Boating Laws fact sheet — life jackets

    DBW fact sheet: one Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket must be carried for each person aboard, readily accessible and properly fitted (an inflatable must be worn to be considered readily accessible). Every child under 13 on board a vessel must wear a properly fitted Coast Guard-approved life jacket, except a child restrained by a harness tethered to a sailboat or in an enclosed cabin. Every person on a PWC and anyone being towed must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket.

    HandbookAgency page
  • California life jacket carriage and child wear

    Carry one Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket for each person aboard, readily accessible and properly fitted. On recreational vessels underway, every child under 13 must wear a properly fitted Coast Guard-approved life jacket unless below decks/in an enclosed cabin or restrained by a harness tethered to a sailboat. Everyone on a PWC and anyone being towed must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Vessels 16 feet or longer also need an immediately accessible throwable (Type IV).

    HandbookAgency page

Colorado

Handbooks & guides

Registration & numbering

  • Annual motor/sail registration plus ANS stamp

    CPW: Colorado residents must register any motorized or sail-powered boat operated on Colorado public waters with CPW. Registrations/renewals annual, valid Jan 1–Dec 31. Out-of-state boats may operate up to 60 days with current home-state registration. Motorized boats and sailboats must have an Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) stamp before launching. Trailered and/or motorized boats require certified ANS inspection.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Motorboat age 18; ages 14–17 with approved course

    CPW (as of June 1, 2024): operation of a motorboat including PWC by a person less than 18 is prohibited, except a person at least 14 but less than 18 may operate if they completed a CPW-approved boating safety course and possess the provider certificate. Adults 18+ are not described as needing a statewide operator license. Courses NASBLA-approved via listed providers.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BUI 0.08 and navigation lights

    CPW handbook: no person shall operate any vessel or ride water skis/aquaplane/surfboard/inner tube/SUP or similar while under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or drugs that render the person incapable of safely operating; no person of any age shall operate those devices with 0.08 percent or more by weight of alcohol in blood. Breath/blood test may be requested; refusal may be admissible. Misdemeanor BUI: up to $1,000 and 1 year jail; boating privileges suspended. CPW safety page: first-time ranges include 5 days–6 months jail, $100–$1,000, up to 2 years probation, mandatory 3-month boating ban. Lights: all vessels display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and in restricted visibility. PWC may not operate from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise even if lighted.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Colorado navigation lights (CPW handbook listing)

    CPW directs boaters to the Boating Handbook with Regulations and Statutes for complete navigation rules (pages 14–19 referenced on the boating page) and publishes a short Rules of the Road overview. Lights and other carriage items are also referenced among statutes and regulations on the safety page. Use the official handbook download from the CPW boating page.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Colorado PFDs / life jackets (CPW)

    CPW boating-safety page: one USCG-approved life jacket for each person on board, readily available, good and serviceable, correct size. Children 12 years of age and younger must wear a life jacket whenever the vessel is on the water except in an enclosed cabin or below deck. Boats 16 feet or longer must have one Type IV throwable PFD. Inflatable life jackets are approved for people 16 and older and not for PWC, whitewater paddling, or towed sports per that page.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Life jackets / PFDs

    CPW water-safety and boating-safety pages: all water vessels (boats, PWC, paddleboards, kayaks) must have appropriately sized life jackets readily accessible for every person on board. Children under 12 must wear a life jacket at all times on board any vessel (except enclosed cabin/below deck as stated on the safety page). Handbook: at least one wearable USCG-approved PFD (Types I, II, III, or V) for every person aboard; Type IV throwable immediately available. Boats 16 ft or longer: one Type IV throwable (boating-safety page). PWC occupants and persons being towed must wear an inherently buoyant USCG-approved life jacket.

    HandbookAgency page

Connecticut

Handbooks & guides

  • Connecticut Boaters Guide

    DEEP publishes the official Boater’s Guide in digital-book and PDF formats (English and Spanish). The landing was last updated February 23, 2026. The English PDF at portal.ct.gov returned HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01.

    HandbookAgency page

Registration & numbering

  • Boat Registration

    All boats with motors regardless of size, and sailboats powered by sail alone that are 19 1/2 feet or longer, must be registered and numbered with the Department of Motor Vehicles before launching. DMV issues a certificate of number/registration and two validation decals valid until April 30 of the following year. Numbers at least three inches high, contrasting, block form, must be on both bows and visible from at least 100 feet; decals go two inches to the right of the number. The certificate must be on board when the owner or an authorized person is aboard (rental agreement may substitute for rented boats).

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Who Needs a Certificate

    Connecticut residents, persons owning real property in Connecticut, or persons with vessels registered in Connecticut must have a Safe Boating Certificate, a Certificate of Personal Watercraft Operation, or a valid U.S. Coast Guard vessel operator license to operate any boat with a motor or a sailboat 19 1/2 feet or longer. Certificates must be on board while operating, are valid for life unless suspended for operating under the influence, and PWC operators need a CPWO or a recognized reciprocal-state certificate (NY, MA, NH, RI). Age rules include onboard adult supervision for under-16 PWC operators and limits on children under 12 operating vessels over 10 horsepower.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Operation of vessel while under the influence (C.G.S. § 15-133)

    No person shall operate a vessel while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug, or both, or while the person has an elevated blood alcohol content. Elevated BAC means 0.08% or more by weight, or 0.02% or more if the person is under 21. For this section, operate means the vessel is underway or aground and not moored, anchored, or docked. First-conviction penalties in the statute include a fine of $500–$1,000, imprisonment of not more than six months (with specified mandatory or alternative community-service terms), and suspension of the safe boating or PWC certificate or right to operate for one year; later convictions within ten years carry higher fines, longer imprisonment, and longer or permanent revocation.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Personal Flotation Devices

    All life jackets must be U.S. Coast Guard approved, in good serviceable condition, and readily accessible. From October 1 through May 31, all persons on a manually propelled vessel must wear a Type I, II, III or V USCG-approved PFD. The operator or owner of a recreational vessel must require any child 12 and under to wear a PFD while the vessel is underway unless the child is below deck or in an enclosed cabin. Ski belts are not legal life jackets. Inflatables may not be used by persons under 16, under 90 pounds, or in high-speed water sports such as water-skiing or PWC.

    HandbookAgency page

Delaware

Handbooks & guides

  • Boating Safety Handbook (PDF not on .gov)

    DNREC describes The Handbook of Delaware Boating Laws and Responsibilities, developed for Delaware Fish and Wildlife Natural Resources Police, as an introduction to Delaware boating laws. No live .gov PDF of that handbook was found (404/gap). Course materials and online courses are linked from the safety page.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Boating Registration

    Delaware law requires registration of all motorboats, including electric motors, if Delaware is the state of principal use. Principal use is the state whose waters are used most in a calendar year; Delaware regulations treat use, docking, or stowing on Delaware waters for over 60 consecutive days as principal use. The registration card must be on board when the vessel is in use. Motorboats launched from DNREC tidal access areas must be Delaware-registered or have a valid Tidal Access Boat Ramp Certificate. Renewals for each season start October 1 of the prior year.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boating Safety

    Persons born on or after January 1, 1978 must successfully complete a boating safety course before operating a motorized boat, including personal watercraft, on Delaware waters. The Basic Boating Safety Course (classroom and listed online providers) meets the mandatory education requirement. PWC operators must be at least 14; 14- and 15-year-olds need an adult on board; 16-year-olds with a boating safety education certificate may operate without adult supervision. Title 23 Del. C. § 2221 (fetched via Delaware Code Online search landing) states NASBLA-approved out-of-state certificates satisfy the requirement and that the certificate must be in possession while operating.

    Handbook

Operation rules

  • Alcohol use on Delaware waters (OUI)

    Operating a vessel under the influence (OUI) is a serious offense. It is illegal and dangerous to operate a vessel on state waters while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or a combination of the two. Boaters are presumed to be under the influence of alcohol within four hours after the time the vessel was operated. A numeric BAC threshold was not stated on this fetched DNREC page.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Who must wear a life jacket?

    DNREC states it is mandatory that all children 12 and under wear a life jacket; all vessels must have a life jacket for each person on board; everyone on a personal watercraft (driver and passengers) must wear a life jacket at all times; anyone being towed behind a vessel must wear a life jacket. The page recommends that everyone on the boat wear a life jacket.

    Handbook

District of Columbia

Handbooks & guides

  • Official recreational-boating handbook

    No official District of Columbia recreational-boating handbook PDF was found on mpdc.dc.gov or other fetched .gov pages (404/gap). MPD publishes boating-safety and harbor-legal HTML pages instead.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Harbor Legal Requirements / OVERS

    Any vessel operated primarily on District waters must be registered annually with the DC Boat Registration Office. The Boat Titling Act requires a Certificate of Title from the Harbor Master before issuance or renewal of a registration number (proof of ownership, $2 title fee, and titling tax). Registration expires December 31 each year. The pocket-sized Certificate of Number must be on board and available for inspection whenever the boat is in operation; annual validation stickers must be within six inches of the number. Display: left-to-right, forward half of each bow, bold block letters not less than three inches, contrasting color, letters separated from numbers by spaces or hyphens.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boating Safety

    Anyone operating a vessel on District of Columbia waterways is required to have a Boating Safety Certificate issued after successfully completing the MPD Harbor Patrol Unit’s free one-day, 8-hour course (course materials included). Pre-registration is required by calling (202) 727-4582. Classes are at 550 Water Street SW, 7 a.m.–3 p.m., limited to 15 students, photo ID required.

    Handbook

Operation rules

Safety equipment

  • Personal Flotation Devices

    All boats must have a wearable-type PFD for each person on board or being towed. Each PFD must be in good condition, readily available, and the proper size. Boats 16 feet or longer must also carry a Type IV throwable device (example: four people on a 16-foot boat require four wearable PFDs plus one throwable).

    Handbook

Florida

Handbooks & guides

  • Boating Regulations (FWC law summaries, as of July 2025)

    Official FWC HTML summary of Florida recreational boating laws used in certified courses. No separate current statewide boating-handbook PDF was found on myfwc.com (404/gap for a standalone PDF). This page is the agency’s current public regulations digest.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Florida vessel registration (tax collector / FLHSMV)

    FWC does not register or title vessels. All vessels must be registered at a county tax collector office except non-motor-powered vessels less than 16 feet and non-motor-powered canoes, kayaks, racing shells, or rowing sculls of any length. Certificate of Registration must be aboard. Numbers on both sides of the forward half; annual decal on the port side within 6 inches of the numbers. Register within 30 days of purchase.

    Handbook
  • Vessel Titling and Registrations

    FLHSMV issues titles and registrations; apply at a county tax collector or license plate agent. All motorized vessels on public waterways must be titled and registered. A purchaser has 30 days to title and register. Exemptions from registration include non-motor-powered vessels less than 16 feet and non-motor-powered canoes, kayaks, racing shells, or rowing sculls regardless of length. Owners may register for one or two years.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card

    Florida does not issue a boating license. Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1988 who operates a vessel powered by 10 horsepower or more must pass an approved NASBLA boating safety course and carry an FWC Boating Safety Education Identification Card plus photo ID. Temporary course-completion certificates may be used for a limited period. Exemptions include USCG masters, private lakes, certain accompanied operators, and nonresidents with proof of a NASBLA course from another state.

    HandbookAgency page
  • How to Get a Boater Education Identification Card

    Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1988, who will operate a boat in Florida waters with an engine of 10 horsepower or more must complete an approved boating safety course and obtain a Florida Boating Safety Education ID Card. The card does not expire and is not a boating license. A course-completion certificate plus photo ID may be used for up to 90 days while the permanent card is issued.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating Regulations — BUI and navigation lights

    It is a violation to operate a vessel while impaired by alcohol or other drugs. An operator is presumed under the influence at a blood- or breath-alcohol level of .08 or above; any person under 21 with a breath-alcohol level of .02 or higher who operates or is in actual physical control of a vessel violates Florida law. Recreational vessels must display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during reduced visibility; USCG Navigation Rules specify lighting. PWCs may not be operated from a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise even if lights are used.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Boating Regulations — Equipment and Lighting Requirements

    All vessels must have a wearable USCG-approved PFD of appropriate size, in serviceable condition, and within easy access for each person. Vessels 16 feet or longer must also have at least one USCG-approved throwable Type IV PFD immediately available. A child under age 6 must wear a USCG-approved Type I, II, or III PFD on a vessel under 26 feet while underway (not anchored, moored, made fast, or aground).

    Handbook

Georgia

Handbooks & guides

  • Georgia DNR boating handbook PDF

    Georgia DNR Law Enforcement boating-rules page links this PDF as "Boating Handbook." Filename and document mark it as a 2023 draft (Kalkomey). HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01. It is an agency education handbook, not the Official Code of Georgia. Statutes are cited on the same DNR page as O.C.G.A. Title 52, Chapter 7.

    HandbookAgency page

Registration & numbering

  • Vessel registration (and related title documents)

    georgia.gov and Georgia DNR: all mechanically propelled vessels and sailboats more than 12 feet used on waters of this state must be registered with Georgia DNR. Exceptions stated by DNR include sailboats under 12 feet; canoes/kayaks/rowboats/rubber rafts with no mechanical propulsion; boats operated exclusively on private ponds or lakes. Certificate of registration and validation decals required; card must be onboard; numbers on both sides of the bow in at least 3-inch block letters; decals on each side of the bow before the prefix. georgia.gov says registration renews every 3 years. DNR registration materials mention additional documents for vessels with a paper title, brand-new, out-of-state, and homemade vessels (including HIN inspection). This dataset does not treat Georgia as a universal title-all-boats state; only what those pages state.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boater education and who may operate

    Georgia DNR and DDS state that anyone born on or after January 1, 1998, who operates a motorized vessel on state waters must complete a DNR-approved (or NASBLA-approved) boater education course. DDS may add an anchor boater indicator to a Georgia driver license or ID. Age rules on the DNR "Who Can Operate a Boat" page: under 12 may operate only a vessel under 16 feet that is non-motorized or 30 hp or less, and only with a competent adult (18+, not intoxicated, with ID); they may not operate vessels over 16 feet. Ages 12-15 may operate a vessel under 16 feet (including PWC) only if they have passed a DNR-approved course or are accompanied by a competent adult, and may not operate vessels over 16 feet. Ages 16+ may operate if they have proper ID onboard; if born after January 1, 1998 they must have passed a DNR-approved course and have the card onboard. Not a driver-license substitute; this is boater education/endorsement, not a separate statewide operator license for all ages.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BUI and navigation lights

    BUI (Georgia DNR BUI page / Boat Safety Act as described by DNR): illegal to operate a boat, sailboat, PWC, water skis, sailboard, or similar device while intoxicated; owners may not allow impaired operation. Under 21: illegal at BAC 0.02 or more. Age 21+: considered under the influence at BAC 0.08 or more or if drugs are detected. Implied consent to testing; refusal may lose operating privilege up to one year. Penalties described by DNR include misdemeanor fines up to $1,000 and/or prison up to one year, and possible loss of privilege until a DDS-approved DUI risk-reduction program is completed. Separate child-endangerment charge if a child under 14 is onboard. Navigation lights: DNR required-equipment checklist requires navigation lights on boats (Class A and Class 1); not applicable to PWC because PWC may not operate between sunset and sunrise. Handbook: failure to show necessary lights is cited as a leading cause of fatal accidents; describes red/green sidelights, white sternlight, masthead/all-round white for power-driven vessels.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    Georgia DNR required-equipment checklist and handbook: at least one USCG-approved wearable Type I, II, III, or V PFD for each person onboard (Type V acceptable only when worn and fastened). One USCG-approved throwable (Type IV) required on boats 16 ft to less than 26 ft (Class 1); not required on PWC or boats less than 16 ft per the checklist. Children under 13 must wear an appropriately sized PFD on a moving vessel unless in a fully enclosed roofed cabin. PWC operators/passengers must wear a PFD at all times. PFDs must be readily accessible, good and serviceable, USCG-approved, and of appropriate size. A DNR motor-restrictions page also says a Type IV throwable must be onboard; the checklist/handbook qualify that by vessel class/length. Wear in areas marked hazardous as stated on the motor-restrictions page.

    HandbookAgency page

Hawaii

Handbooks & guides

Registration & numbering

  • Annual DOBOR vessel registration and titling

    DOBOR FAQ/VRT: all boats must be registered annually except a recreational vessel with a valid USCG marine document; U.S. Government-owned; a vessel's lifeboat used solely for lifesaving; a manually propelled recreational vessel; a recreational vessel 8 ft or less propelled solely by sail; or motorboats used exclusively for racing. Number at least 3 inches, forward half, contrasting color; annual validation decals within 6 inches astern of the number. Visiting vessels staying less than 60 days: DOBOR thrill-craft FAQ says they do not need Hawaii registration. Online renewals at vessel.ehawaii.gov.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Hawaii mandatory boater education (HAR §13-244-15.5; DOBOR FAQ)

    DOBOR: to operate a recreational motorized vessel powered by an engine over 10 hp, the operator must complete a NASBLA- and State-approved basic boating safety course and show proof on demand. Under-16 operators must have the certificate and be directly supervised by an adult 21+ who also holds the certificate. Thrill craft require additional certification. Exemptions include MMC holders, vessels 10 hp or less, visitors staying under 60 days, and certain rental briefings as listed.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Mandatory NASBLA/state boater education over 10 hp

    DLNR DOBOR: effective Nov 10, 2014, operators of motorized vessels in Hawaii state waters must have completed a NASBLA and State-approved boating safety course and show proof on demand (HAR 13-244-15.5). Motorized-vessel FAQ: applies to recreational motorized vessels powered by an engine over 10 hp (and sail with auxiliary over 10 hp). Under-16 operators need the certificate and direct supervision by an adult 21+ who also holds the certificate. Carry hardcopy proof (paper certificate valid). Exemptions stated by DOBOR include valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential, vessels 10 hp or less, out-of-state visitors staying less than 60 calendar days, and rental operators who received a State-approved safety briefing. Thrill craft need additional certification. Not a driver license.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BUI (HAR 13-244-10/11) and navigation lights

    HAR 13-244-10: no person under the influence of intoxicating liquor shall operate or be in actual physical control of any vessel on waters of the State; owners may not authorize operation by an intoxicated person. HAR 13-244-11: no habitual user or person under the influence of a narcotic or any drug to a degree that renders the person incapable of safely operating shall operate a vessel. FAQ does not state a numeric BAC on that page; no invented 0.08. Lights: HAR 13-243 incorporates USCG navigation-light standards; FAQ requires navigational lights as required by USCG; thrill-craft FAQ: navigation lights only required at night or in poor visibility. Vessels 12 meters or longer must carry current USCG Inland Navigation Rules (HAR 13-244-2).

    HandbookAgency page
  • Hawaii navigation lights (DOBOR PFD/education pages; HAR lighting rules)

    DOBOR equipment and education materials require proper lights. Recreational lighting follows USCG/COLREGS as adopted; display from sunset to sunrise and in restricted visibility. Specific carriage by vessel class is in HAR equipment chapters linked from DOBOR.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Hawaii life jackets (HAR 13-243-1; DOBOR PFD page)

    Every vessel must have at least one USCG-approved wearable life jacket for each person, readily accessible, serviceable, and proper fit. Children 12 and under must wear a PFD while aboard a vessel operating or anchored offshore (HAR 13-243-1). Vessels 16 feet and longer must also carry a Type IV throwable (canoes/kayaks typically exempt). Thrill-craft operators and passengers must wear a PFD; inflatables generally prohibited on PWC.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Life jackets / PFDs

    DOBOR FAQ: boats propelled or controlled by machinery, sails, oars, paddles or poles must have PFDs, fire extinguisher, navigational lights, sound devices, ventilation, backfire flame control, and distress signals as required by USCG (HAR 13-243). HAR 13-243-1(b): no person shall operate or anchor offshore a recreational vessel unless all children under 13 wear a properly fitted PFD whenever the vessel is underway on ocean waters or navigable streams of the state or when moored/anchored offshore in a non-designated offshore mooring area, unless children are below decks or in an enclosed cabin. All thrill-craft operators and passengers must wear a PFD.

    HandbookAgency page

Idaho

Handbooks & guides

  • Idaho Boating Laws handbook PDF

    IDPR-hosted https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/idaho-handbook-entire.pdf HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01 (~3.2 MB). Agency education handbook (Kalkomey). Not a substitute for Idaho Code Title 67 Chapter 70.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Certificate of Number; sailboats included

    IDPR handbook: Idaho Certificate of Number and validation stickers required to operate on Idaho waters except manually propelled vessels (canoes, rafts, kayaks), float tubes without a motor, sailboards, vessels properly registered in another state using Idaho waters 60 or fewer consecutive days, and USCG-documented vessels. All sailboats, whether power-driven or under sail, need to be registered. Original Certificate of Number onboard. IDPR: purchase/renew online, vendors, or some DMV offices; email receipt temporary proof 60 days.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Idaho vessel numbering (IDPR handbook)

    Certificate of Number and validation stickers are required except manually propelled vessels, unpowered float tubes, sailboards, vessels properly registered in another state using Idaho waters 60 or fewer consecutive days, and USCG-documented vessels. All sailboats need to be registered. Numbers/stickers displayed as specified; certificate on board.

    Handbook

Operator license & education

  • Idaho operator age and education (official handbook)

    The official Idaho Boating Laws and Responsibilities handbook states there is no statewide law specifying a minimum age to operate a vessel; operators must be competent and know navigation rules. Local age ordinances exist (examples: Benewah, Bonner, Kootenai). Statewide education is required for PWC rental operators (wallet card), after an OUI conviction, and for repeat offenders of boating law.

    Handbook
  • No statewide operator license; limited education triggers

    IDPR handbook: no statewide minimum operator age (local ordinances may apply, e.g. Benewah, Bonner, Kootenai). Education required: PWC rental businesses must educate each rider/operator (wallet card); operators convicted of OUI must pass a boating course; repeat offenders of any boating law/rule must pass a course. NASBLA table historically lists Idaho as PWC rentals only. Not a statewide adult operator license.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • OUI 0.08/0.02 and navigation lights

    IDPR handbook / Idaho Code 67-7034 as posted by the Legislature: unlawful to operate or be in actual physical control of a vessel with alcohol concentration 0.08 or more, or while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicating substances. Under 21: at least 0.02. Handbook penalties include up to $1,000 and/or six months jail, required safe-boating course, loss of vessel operating privileges up to two years. Lights: required navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during restricted visibility (power-driven and unpowered configurations in the handbook).

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Idaho life jackets (IDPR handbook)

    At least one USCG-approved Type I, II, or III life jacket of proper size for each person on board or being towed. Vessels 16 feet or longer (except canoes and kayaks of any length) must also have a Type IV throwable readily accessible. Children 14 or younger on vessels 19 feet or less must wear an approved life jacket when underway. Each PWC rider and each towed person must wear a USCG-approved life jacket.

    Handbook
  • Life jackets / PFDs

    IDPR boating page and handbook: at least one USCG-approved Type I, II, or III of proper size for each person on board or being towed. Vessels 16 ft or longer (except canoes and kayaks of any length) must have one Type IV throwable readily accessible. Children 14 or younger on vessels 19 ft or less must wear an approved life jacket when underway (includes canoes/rafts, powerboats, sailboats, PWC, fishing float tubes). Each person on a PWC and each person being towed must wear a USCG-approved life jacket. PFDs serviceable, readily accessible, proper size. Seaplanes, sailboards, certain racing vessels exempt; fly-fishing float tubes do not require PFDs on lakes less than 200 surface acres; pontoons do.

    HandbookAgency page

Illinois

Handbooks & guides

  • The Handbook of Illinois Boating Laws and Responsibilities (2023)

    IDNR hosts the 2023 Handbook of Illinois Boating Laws and Responsibilities (Boat Registration and Safety Act citations, 625 ILCS 45). HTTP 200 on retrieve. Covers numbering/titling, who may operate, PFDs, navigation lights, alcohol/drugs, accidents, PWC, and towing. Printed by authority of the State of Illinois; Kalkomey layout. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Registering A New Boat In Illinois (IDNR)

    Apply with the Online Watercraft Application (NEW). New Illinois-dealer Class 1 (except PWC) needs the original Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin and electronic fee payment; PWC and Classes 2–4 also need listed tax forms. Used out-of-state numbered craft need the out-of-state title or, in a non-titling state, the registration card. The companion 2023 handbook states a Certificate of Number, expiration decals, and (except unpowered craft and listed exemptions) a Certificate of Title are required; unpowered canoes/kayaks/paddleboards are excepted; vessels 21 ft and under are not required to have a Certificate of Title; registration is valid three years and all certificates expire Sept. 30 at the end of the cycle; out-of-state numbered or USCG-documented vessels may use Illinois waters less than 60 consecutive days. Carry the registration card aboard. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boating Safety Education (IDNR)

    Illinois does not issue a recreational boat operator’s license. No person under 10 may operate a motorboat or PWC. Ages 10–11 may operate a motorboat over 10 hp only under direct on-board supervision of a parent, guardian, or designated person at least 18. Ages 12–17 may operate over 10 hp with a valid IDNR-accepted Boating Safety Certificate or that same on-board supervision. Persons born on or after Jan. 1, 1998, who are 18+ may operate over 10 hp only with a valid certificate; persons born before that date are not required to hold one. Certificates are valid for life; electronic display is accepted. Supervisors born on or after Jan. 1, 1998, must themselves hold a certificate. Reciprocity covers other states, Canadian provinces, USCG Auxiliary, and U.S. Power Squadrons. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BUI and navigation lights — Illinois handbook and 625 ILCS 45/5-16

    BUI: Illinois prohibits operating or being in actual physical control of any watercraft while the alcohol concentration is at the level at which driving a motor vehicle is prohibited (Vehicle Code 11-501), while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or intoxicating compounds, or with any amount of listed unlawful drugs. The 2023 handbook states 0.08% blood or breath alcohol or more is operating under the influence; implied consent applies; first conviction is generally a Class A misdemeanor with higher felonies for injury, death, or priors. Lights (625 ILCS 45/4-2 and 45/4-8): required between sunset and sunrise and in restricted visibility. Power-driven vessels under 65.6 ft need red/green sidelights and an all-round white light or masthead plus sternlight (visibility distances as in the handbook). Unpowered vessels under 65.6 ft need sidelights and a sternlight; under 23 ft may use a lantern/flashlight if sidelights are not practical. Anchored vessels away from a dock/designated mooring need a white light visible one mile all around. PWC may not be operated between sunset and sunrise. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Personal Flotation Devices (625 ILCS 45/4-1) — Illinois handbook

    All vessels must carry at least one USCG-approved wearable PFD for each person on board or being towed. Vessels 16 ft or longer, except canoes and kayaks, must also carry one USCG-approved throwable. While underway, each person under 13 on deck or in an open watercraft must wear an approved, sized wearable PFD unless enclosed in a cabin or below the top deck, on an anchored swim/dive platform, or aboard a charter passenger-for-hire vessel with a licensed captain. Each person on a PWC or specialty prop-craft must wear a USCG-approved PFD; inflatables are not approved for PWC/prop-craft. PFDs must be serviceable, readily accessible, properly sized, and legibly USCG-marked. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Indiana

Handbooks & guides

  • Handbook of Indiana Boating Laws and Responsibilities — GAP

    IN.gov BMV watercraft registration and title pages direct boaters to the DNR Handbook of Indiana Boating Laws and Responsibilities but do not host a working .gov PDF. Probed DNR paths (law-enforcement/files/le-Boating_Handbook.pdf and lawenforcement/files/le-Boating_Handbook.pdf) returned HTTP 404. FAQ pages point to boat-ed.com, which is outside the .gov/DNR/nasbla.org source set. Official handbook PDF on an allowed host: missing (gap). Not legal advice.

    Official source

Registration & numbering

  • Watercraft Registration (Indiana BMV)

    BMV titles and registers watercraft operated in Indiana. All watercraft on Indiana waterways must be registered and display valid decals unless exempt. Apply at a BMV branch with proof of ownership; if no title is required, a Watercraft Ownership Affidavit (SF 55100) may be used. BMV issues a certificate of registration, a registration number, and two decals. Carry the certificate whenever the craft is in operation. Display the number on each side of the bow; decals go within three inches to the right of the number (or on the forward half of the bow if a number is not required). Renew annually on or before the scheduled expiration. Exemptions include non-motorized watercraft such as canoes, rowboats, and paddleboats (sailboats still need decals), foreign craft temporarily using Indiana waters, ship’s lifeboats used only as lifeboats, out-of-state registered craft in Indiana not more than 60 consecutive days in a calendar year (180 days if docked on the Indiana part of Lake Michigan), and a dealer/private bill of sale not more than 45 days after purchase. Not legal advice.

    Official source

Operator license & education

  • At what age may a person operate a motorboat? (IN.gov FAQ / IC 14-15-11)

    Indiana does not issue a separate recreational boat operator’s license. The operator of a motorboat of more than 10 horsepower must have a valid driver’s license, or be at least 15 years old, have passed a DNR-approved Boater Education Course, and possess a BMV identification card. Persons younger than 15 may not operate a watercraft with an engine of more than 10 hp. The BMV Driver’s Manual Ch. 3 adds: a suspended driver’s license bars watercraft operation; Indiana residents on boundary waters must carry an Indiana driver’s license; nonresidents need a driver’s license only when operating in an Indiana embayment, river, or stream. Not legal advice.

    Official source

Operation rules

  • Watercraft OWI and night lights (BMV Driver’s Manual Ch. 3; IC 14-15-2-10)

    BUI: BMV Driver’s Manual Chapter 3 (in.gov) states that operating a watercraft recklessly, while intoxicated, or in violation of private watercraft laws may result in points on the operator’s driver record; a suspended driver’s license bars watercraft operation. IC 35-46-9 remains the 2025 criminal-code chapter for operating a motorboat while intoxicated (chemical-test definitions appear in IC 35-31.5-2); 2026 Senate Bill 251 would fold watercraft into vehicle OWI and repeal the separate motorboat offense (pending/not treated as current law here). Lights: IC 14-15-2-10 (iga.in.gov) prohibits operating a boat on public water between sunset and sunrise unless equipped with lights required by 33 CFR 83 and IC 14-15-2, in good repair, and displayed/lighted except as otherwise permitted. Related equipment sections cover all-round white light aft and hand lanterns/flashlights for specified nonpowered and small sail boats (IC 14-15-2-11 through 14-15-2-13). Not legal advice.

    Official source

Safety equipment

Iowa

Handbooks & guides

  • Official Iowa Boater Safety Handbook (DNR media 7701)

    Iowa DNR’s boater-education page labels an Official Iowa Boater Safety Handbook. The Laws & Responsibilities PDF at iowadnr.gov/media/7701/download returned HTTP 200. It covers wearable/throwable PFDs, the under-13 wear rule, and navigation lights from sunset to sunrise and in reduced visibility. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Boating Registration (Iowa DNR)

    Iowa residents using vessels on public water must register with Iowa DNR via the county recorder (resident county; nonresidents register where the boat is used most). Display current decals and the Iowa number; carry the registration certificate or a county-recorder vessel hard card. Registrations renew every three years; this cycle expires April 30, 2028, with a $5 penalty assessed July 1, 2028, if not renewed. Nonresidents may use another state’s registration up to 60 nonconsecutive days. Numbers: at least 3-inch bold BLOCK letters on the forward half of each side, IA 3717 ZW or IA-3717-ZW style, contrasting color; decals 4 inches toward the stern in line with the number. Need proof of ownership/bill of sale, title if applicable, and Form 542-8067. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boater Education & Safety (Iowa DNR)

    Iowa does not issue a recreational boat operator’s license. Any person 12–17 years old may operate a motorboat over 10 hp or a PWC if the person has successfully completed an IA DNR-approved boater education course or is accompanied on board by a responsible person at least 18 who is experienced in operating the vessel. Online NASBLA-style courses listed on the DNR page include a $5 state fee on paid vendors; BoatUS Foundation is listed as the free approved online course. A May 12, 2026, DNR news release restates the 12–17 / over-10-hp or PWC education rule. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating & Alcohol Use and navigation lights (Iowa DNR)

    BWI: operating a motorboat or sailboat under the influence of alcohol at 0.08 or higher, a controlled substance, or other illegal chemical is unlawful on navigable Iowa waters except ponds and privately owned lakes. For BWI, operating a motorboat means the motor is running; operating a sailboat means a motor running or sails hoisted and underway. Implied tests; refusal is penalized. First offense is a serious misdemeanor (at least 48 hours jail, fine up to $1,000, one-year loss of boat operating privileges). A BWI is not transferred to automobile driving records. Lights (handbook): display between sunset and sunrise and whenever weather reduces visibility. Power-driven vessels (including sailboats under engine) under 65.6 ft: red/green sidelights and all-round white or masthead plus sternlight. Sailboats under sail: sidelights and sternlight. Manually powered vessels under 23 ft on listed large waters should exhibit a 360-degree white light visible one mile, plus a white light on hand if the all-round light is obscured; on other waters they must have a white light aboard for night use. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets — Iowa DNR handbook and 2026 safety release

    All vessels must have at least one USCG-approved Type I, II, III, or V wearable PFD for each person on board; vessels 16 ft or longer must also carry a USCG-approved throwable (handbook). While underway on a recreational vessel on Iowa waters, a child under 13 must wear a USCG-approved PFD unless in an enclosed cabin or below deck or a passenger on a commercial vessel of capacity 25 or more. DNR’s May 12, 2026, release: kids under 13 must wear a life jacket at all times when the vessel is underway; enough jackets for all aboard. Wearables must be USCG-approved, sized, serviceable, and readily accessible. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Kansas

Handbooks & guides

  • Kansas Boating Regulations (KDWP HTML summary / 2026 booklet)

    KDWP’s boating-regulations landing is the official public summary (PFDs, lights, BUI, education, registration display). Printed copies of the Boating Regulations Summary are available at parks, regional offices, marinas, and dealers. Linked 2026 English PDF paths from older ksoutdoors.gov/content/download/... returned 404; www.ksoutdoors.gov PDF fetch returned 403 from this environment. Official HTML handbook content: found. Standalone 2026 PDF: treat as gap from this retrieve. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Boat Registrations (KDWP)

    All vessels powered by motor (gas, diesel, or electric) or sail must be registered and numbered. Kansas does not title watercraft or register/title motors. Nonresidents properly numbered in another state may use Kansas waters up to 60 consecutive days. Carry the Certificate of Number aboard. New-owner registration (online, in person, or mail) needs a photo or pencil tracing of the HIN and $42.50 (page also lists $40.00 plus agent/transaction fees). Display KA plus numerals and suffix letters (e.g., KA 123 AA) in 3-inch vertical block characters on each side of the forward top half; expiration decal for the three-year term. Registrations expire every three years from the date of registration. Notify Pratt Operations in writing within 15 days of sale, transfer, loss, theft, destruction, or abandonment. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boating Education (Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks)

    Kansas does not issue a recreational boat operator’s license; it requires a boater education certificate for specified youth. Any person under 21 who wants to operate a motor- or sail-propelled vessel (motorboat, PWC, sailboat, sailboard) without direct and audible supervision must complete an approved course. No one under 12 may operate a motorized vessel without that supervision even with a certificate. Direct and audible supervision means an onboard person close enough to take control, at least 18, who either holds a certificate or is 21+ (exempt). Paddlecraft without a motor have no education requirement. NASBLA cards from other states are accepted. Persons 21+ are not required to hold a certificate. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BUI (K.S.A. 32-1131) and navigation lights (KDWP)

    BUI: no person shall operate or attempt to operate any vessel with alcohol concentration .08 or more, or .02 or more if under 21, or while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination so as to be incapable of safely operating. Implied consent; refusal bars operation for three months. First conviction is a misdemeanor (up to one year and/or $100–$500); a boater safety course is required before operating again. KDWP: alcohol aboard is not itself illegal; skiing/tubing under the influence is illegal. Lights: all boats must use navigation lights between sunset and sunrise. Motorboats under 40 ft use KDWP figures 1–3; 40–65 ft use figures 1 or 2. Sailboats under sail use figures 4–6; under power they follow motorboat lights. Manually propelled boats shall carry a flashlight or lantern showing a white light in time to prevent collision. Anchored boats need an all-round white light unless in a designated mooring area. PWC may not be operated between sunset and sunrise. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life Jackets (PFDs) — Kansas boating regulations

    All boats must have one wearable PFD of proper size, in serviceable condition, not in an enclosed compartment, and readily accessible for each person on board. Anyone 12 years old and younger must wear a life jacket at all times when on board a boat (even when anchored) or being towed. Boats 16 ft and longer, except canoes and kayaks, must also carry one throwable that is serviceable and not in an enclosed compartment. Each person operating or riding a PWC must wear a properly fitting life jacket; inflatables are not allowed on PWC. K.S.A. 32-1129: operator may not operate while any person 12 or under is aboard or being towed unless that person is wearing a USCG-approved PFD or is below decks or in an enclosed cabin; a life belt or ring does not satisfy the wear rule. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Kentucky

Handbooks & guides

  • KDFWR boating guide (HTML); safety-manual PDF access-limited here

    Primary official recreational-boating guide retrieved: KDFWR Fish & Boat Guide "Boating" page (HTTP 200). Agency also hosts https://fw.ky.gov/Enforcement/Documents/kyboatingsafetymanual.pdf (Kentucky Boating Safety Manual); a HEAD request from this environment returned HTTP 403, not 404. The HTML guide states it is basic information, not all-inclusive; statutes/regulations cited include KRS Chapter 235 and 301 KAR Chapter 6.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Motorboat registration and title via county clerk

    KDFWR: all mechanically powered vessels used primarily in Kentucky must have a Kentucky registration; register at the county clerk (county of residence or principal use); registrations expire April 30 each year; out-of-state boats may be used up to 60 consecutive days; certificate of registration must be onboard. Display KY number on bow both sides, 3-inch block, space between letter and number groups; decals within six inches aft of the number. KY DRIVE (drive.ky.gov): KRS 235.040 requires every motorboat on waters of this state to be numbered and currently registered. Kentucky titles motorboats (Form TC 96-184 Motorboat Transaction Record/Application for Title and Registration); Kentucky does not title the motor on a boat. USCG-documented vessels are exempt from titling and registering under KRS 235.070(2)(f) as stated on the DRIVE boats page unless the owner elects to title/register after documentation deletion.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Youth operator age and boater education certificate

    Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife (KDFWR) boating guide: a person must be 12 years or older to operate a motorboat (including PWC) with 10 horsepower or over on Kentucky public waters. A person 12-17 years old shall possess a Kentucky Safe Boating Certificate Card or a certificate showing successful completion of a NASBLA-approved boater education course. Adults are not described on that page as needing a statewide operator license. Persons under 12 must wear a PFD in the open portion of a boat that is underway (also an equipment rule). NASBLA mandatory-education table historically listed Kentucky without a born-on-or-after adult mandate; confirm current law with KDFWR.

    Handbook

Operation rules

  • Operating under the influence and navigation lights

    KDFWR (citing KRS 235.240): illegal to operate a boat or vessel including PWC, or manipulate water skis, surfboards, or similar devices, while intoxicated or under the influence of any substance that impairs driving ability. Implied consent to alcohol/drug tests; refusal is a violation with the same penalties. Page states anyone who operates while intoxicated with BAC 0.08 or higher, or while under the influence of any impairing substance, may be subject to fines and possible jail if convicted. Navigation lights: when underway between sunset and sunrise, all vessels must display proper navigation lights, restricted to red, green, and white. From sunset to sunrise in an area where other boats navigate, vessels at anchor shall display a steady white light visible 360 degrees. Manually propelled vessels shall carry a white light to display in sufficient time to avoid a collision. Red and green lights required from sunset to sunrise whenever a boat is underway. Lighting equipment is also addressed in 301 KAR 6:020.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    KDFWR required equipment: federal and state law require a Type I, II, or III PFD for each person onboard all boats. Boats 16 feet and over, except canoes and kayaks, must also carry one Type IV throwable PFD. Operators and passengers of personal watercraft must wear a PFD. Persons under 12 years of age must wear a PFD while in the open part of a boat that is underway. PFDs must be USCG-approved, serviceable, properly sized, and readily accessible. Persons being towed must wear a Type I, II, or III PFD.

    Handbook

Louisiana

Handbooks & guides

  • LDWF Handbook of Louisiana Boating Laws and Responsibilities

    Official LDWF PDF handbook at wlf.louisiana.gov (HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01). Agency education handbook summarizing laws/responsibilities; not a substitute for Louisiana Revised Statutes. LDWF boater-education page also links a Boat-Ed HTML handbook (third-party); this row uses the .gov PDF only.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Boat registration and title

    LDWF Title or Register Your Boat: must register with LDWF all motorized vessels/watercraft, including sailboats 12 feet or longer, used in Louisiana waters; must also register non-motorized houseboats. Must title a boat or outboard motor (25 horsepower or more) that is financed or currently titled in another state when registering it in Louisiana, a homemade boat, or a boat that has an incorrect hull identification number. Homemade boats or boats without/incorrect HIN applying for first registration must be inspected by LDWF and titled in addition to being registered. Must register USCG-documented boats used recreationally in Louisiana waters. Boat registrations are valid for three years from the date issued; renew within 60 days of expiration. Keep registration certificate onboard at all times; paint or attach the number and attach decals per LDWF requirements.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Mandatory boater education

    LDWF: if born after January 1, 1984, must successfully complete an LDWF-approved boater education course to operate a motorboat over 10 horsepower, unless accompanied by someone over age 18 who has successfully completed an LDWF-approved course if required. That accompaniment exception does not apply to personal watercraft. Born after January 1, 1984 must complete an approved course to operate a PWC and must be age 16 or older to operate a PWC. Certificate of course completion must be carried on the motorboat or PWC (or a free Boater Education endorsement may be added to a Louisiana driver license at OMV so the card need not be carried if the license is carried). USCG licensed captains are not required to take the course. Youth under 10 may take a course but are not eligible to be certified until age 10 or older.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • DWI/intoxication on the water and navigation lights

    LDWF Boating Regulations: may not operate any motorboat or vessel or manipulate waterski/surfboard/similar device while intoxicated or under the influence of any narcotic drug, barbiturate, or marijuana; owner/person in charge may not knowingly permit an intoxicated person to operate. Operators DWI with BAC 0.08 and higher face the same penalties as highway DWI, including suspension/revocation of boating privileges and driver license. LDWF handbook: intoxicated if BAC 0.08% or greater and 21 or older, or BAC 0.02% or greater and under 21; penalties described include fine up to $1,000, imprisonment up to six months, or both; implied consent to testing; DUI while boating affects automobile driving privileges. Navigation lights: LDWF equipment table lists navigation lights as required for PWC and boats. Handbook: required navigation lights must be displayed between sunset and sunrise and during periods of restricted visibility; power-driven vessels under 65.6 feet need red and green sidelights and an all-round white light or masthead plus sternlight. PWC: illegal to operate between sunset and sunrise without USCG-approved navigation lights.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    LDWF required-equipment table: wearable PFDs (Type I, II, or III) required on PWC and boats; Type IV throwable required on boats 16 feet to less than 26 feet, not required on PWC or boats less than 16 feet. LDWF handbook: each person on board must wear a USCG-approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD while underway on a motorboat less than 16 feet using an outboard steered by a hand tiller/steering arm (does not apply to electronic trolling motors); boats 16 feet or longer must have one USCG-approved throwable Type IV onboard and readily accessible; each person on a PWC must wear a USCG-approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD; all children 16 years of age and younger must wear a fastened, proper-size USCG-approved PFD while underway on a vessel less than 26 feet; all boats must have at least one USCG-approved wearable Type I, II, or III of proper size for each person onboard or being towed. PFDs must be USCG-approved, serviceable, readily accessible, and properly sized.

    HandbookAgency page

Maine

Handbooks & guides

Registration & numbering

  • Lake and River Protection Stickers / registration display

    Motorboats used on Maine waters as the state of principal use must obtain a certificate of number (Title 12 §13056, cited on related IFW pages). The IFW protection-sticker page states the registration number and validation stickers must be legibly displayed on each side of the bow, not less than 3 inches high, vertical block capitals and Arabic numerals, contrasting color, reading left to right. All motorized watercraft on inland waters must also display an annual lake and river protection (“Preserve Maine Waters”) sticker; for Maine-registered craft it is combined with the registration fee. A motorboat or PWC may not be placed on inland waters unless a valid lake and river protection sticker is affixed to each side of the bow, above the waterline and about 3 inches behind the validation sticker (Title 12, §13058).

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boating Safety and Education Course

    Maine does not issue a “boating license.” A person born on or after January 1, 1999 may not operate a motorboat greater than 25 horsepower for recreational boating on inland or territorial waters unless that person is 12 or older and has completed a boater safety and education course; the certificate must be presented to law enforcement on request. A person born after January 1, 1999 must also complete the course and be at least 16 to operate a PWC or to supervise a person under 12 operating a motorboat. NASBLA-approved courses from other states are accepted. The Boating Safety Education Card is valid for life. Listed exemptions include commercial fishing while so engaged, certain registered Maine guides, dealer test drives under supervision, and rental operators with a rental-agent temporary course (up to 14 days).

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating under the influence

    Operating a recreational vessel with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher is against Maine law. BUI applies to drugs as well as alcohol. DMR Marine Patrol states it will prosecute people who are under the influence while operating a boat.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Navigation lights (gear check)

    DMR recreational boating safety guidance tells boaters to have working navigation lights along with visual distress signals, sound devices, and properly displayed registration numbers. Detailed lighting configurations are not on this fetched page; the official handbook PDF is the cited fuller source.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets and personal flotation devices

    State law requires each person on board to have a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved serviceable life jacket. Children 12 or younger, including an operator who is 12 or younger, must wear a USCG-approved PFD while on any watercraft that is underway and used for recreational purposes, unless the child is below decks, in an enclosed cabin, or the watercraft has a USCG certificate of inspection. Boats longer than 16 feet must have a throwable PFD. DMR states that effective January 1, 2026, children 12 or younger must wear a USCG-approved PFD at all times while on board a recreational watercraft that is underway unless below deck, in an enclosed cabin, or the watercraft is docked, anchored, or moored.

    HandbookAgency page

Maryland

Handbooks & guides

Registration & numbering

  • Boat Registration

    A vessel must be registered in Maryland if it is equipped with any kind of primary or auxiliary mechanical propulsion and is used in Maryland most in a calendar year. USCG-documented vessels using Maryland waters are not exempt from vessel excise tax; when used principally in Maryland they must display a documented use decal. Excise tax (5% of purchase price or fair market value, minimum $5, maximum $16,100 effective July 1, 2026) must be paid within 30 days of Maryland tax liability. Title fee $20; registration fee $70 for a 2-year decal expiring December 31 of the subsequent year (fees effective October 1, 2025). Titling/registration is through DNR Service Centers.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boating Tips — take a boating safety course

    Boaters born on or after July 1, 1972 must carry a NASBLA-approved certificate of boating safety education when operating a motorized boat on Maryland waters. Personal watercraft operators must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid certificate of boating safety education.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Don’t drink and boat

    A boat operator whose blood or breath analysis shows an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or greater is considered to be under the influence of alcohol and subject to criminal prosecution.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Navigation lights

    The fetched DNR Boating Tips PDF and registration pages do not set out navigation-light configurations. NRP’s State Requirements landing points to the recreational-vessels guide/PDF; treat detailed light diagrams as in that booklet rather than as a separate fetched HTML rule.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jacket requirements

    Life jackets must be the proper size, in good serviceable condition, and readily accessible. All recreational boats must carry one wearable life jacket (Type I, II, III or V) for each person aboard. Any motorized boat 16 feet or longer must also carry one throwable Type IV. Children under 13 must wear a USCG-approved life jacket while underway on a recreational vessel under 21 feet on Maryland waters. Children under 4 must wear a life jacket with additional safety features appropriate for an infant/toddler/young child, including a headrest, web handle, and crotch strap.

    HandbookAgency page

Massachusetts

Handbooks & guides

  • Massachusetts Boating Safety Guide

    Mass.gov hosts the official Massachusetts Boat Safety Handbook landing. A guessed mass.gov /download PDF URL returned HTTP 404. The page also links an off-site Boat-Ed handbook (not used as a source). Treat the .gov handbook file as a gap; use the HTML law summary.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Boat Registration

    State law requires any motor-powered boat, or boat operated on a Massachusetts public waterway, to be registered, including motorized fishing boats, canoes and sailboats with motors, and jet skis or wet bikes. Non-motorized boats need not be registered, nor boats with U.S. Coast Guard documented registration. Agency vessels used only for a city, county, state, or federal agency can be registered for no fee. The Boat and Recreation Vehicle Registration and Titling Bureau administers registration and titling.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Massachusetts Boating Law Summary — safety education certification

    Starting April 1, 2026, a valid boater safety certificate is required for all individuals operating motorboats and PWCs. Persons born after January 1, 1989 must obtain a certificate by April 1, 2026 (no penalties until September 1, 2026). Persons born on or before January 1, 1989 must obtain a certificate before April 1, 2028. All such operators must carry proof of an approved course on the water. Until March 31, 2026, ages 12–15 need an approved basic course to operate a motorboat without adult supervision; PWC operators must be at least 16. No person under 12 may operate a motorboat unless accompanied on board and directly supervised by a competent person 18 or older.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Prohibited operation — BUI

    Operating any vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited. Operators with blood alcohol concentration of .08 BAC are presumed to be impaired. Penalties may include loss of a motor vehicle driver’s license, loss of vessel registration, significant fines, and jail time.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Safety equipment / PFD wear

    Most state equipment carriage requirements are similar to federal law (PFDs, fire extinguishers, signaling devices, visual distress signals, navigation lights). Every vessel not less than 16 feet shall have a throwable PFD that is readily accessible and in good and serviceable condition. PFDs are required to be worn by: youth under 12; personal watercraft users; water skiers; and canoeists/kayakers from September 15 through May 15. Boat owners or operators must ensure passengers wear PFDs as required.

    HandbookAgency page

Michigan

Handbooks & guides

Registration & numbering

  • Michigan watercraft registration (Department of State)

    All watercraft, unless exempt, must be registered with the Michigan Department of State and display a registration decal. Registrations expire on March 31 in the third year of issuance. Carry/display registration as required by Part 801.

    Handbook
  • Recreational vehicles and watercraft

    Michigan Secretary of State: recreational watercraft are registered unless exempt; registrations are issued for three years and expire March 31 of the third year. Titles are required for watercraft 20 feet or longer and for watercraft with a permanently affixed engine regardless of length; USCG documented vessels need no Michigan title but still need Michigan registration. Exemptions from registration include watercraft 16 feet or shorter propelled by oars or paddles and not used for rental/commercial purposes, and nonmotorized canoes/kayaks not used for rental/commercial purposes, rafts, surfboards, sailboards, and swim floats regardless of length. Out-of-state registered craft may use Michigan waters up to 60 days.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boat operator age restrictions

    A person born on or after July 1, 1996, may operate a motorboat with a motor more than 6 horsepower only with a boating safety certificate; those born before that date may operate a motorboat without that certificate restriction. Under 12: up to 6 hp unrestricted; more than 6 hp up to 35 hp only with a valid certificate onboard and direct supervision by someone at least 16; more than 35 hp prohibited. PWC: no one under 14; ages 14–15 need a certificate and parent/guardian/designated adult 21+ onboard or within 100 feet on another PWC; 16+ born after Dec. 31, 1978, need a certificate; born on or before Dec. 31, 1978, may operate a PWC without that restriction.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Michigan boating safety certificate

    A boating safety certificate is required for anyone born on or after July 1, 1996 who operates a vessel. Courses are available classroom, online (Boat-Ed), and USCG Auxiliary/Power Squadron. Additional PWC and age restrictions are posted on DNR operator-age pages. DNR also states boaters born after June 30, 1996 and most PWC operators must have a certificate.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating rules and regulations hub — alcohol and marine safety

    DNR’s boating rules hub is the official public entry for Michigan marine safety including the Handbook of Michigan Boating Laws, alcohol restrictions, hours of operation, buoys and markers, and Marine Safety Part 801 / Personal Watercraft Part 802. This fetch did not extract a numeric BAC figure on the hub page itself; operators should use the handbook linked from this page for BUI and lighting detail.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Life jacket rules

    All vessels must have a USCG-approved PFD for each person onboard or being towed. A vessel less than 16 feet, or a canoe or kayak, must have either a wearable Type I/II/III or a throwable Type IV for each person. Children under 6 must wear a USCG-approved Type I or II PFD on the open deck of any vessel while underway. Vessels 16 feet or longer also need one readily accessible USCG-approved throwable. Each person on a PWC or being towed must wear Type I, II, or III; inflatable PFDs are not allowed on PWC or while being towed. PFDs must be good, serviceable, and readily accessible.

    HandbookAgency page

Minnesota

Handbooks & guides

  • Minnesota Boating Guide 2026

    Official Minnesota DNR Boating Guide PDF summarizing state boating laws and regulations (does not present the actual statutes). HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Watercraft licenses - registration procedures & fees

    Register at a deputy registrar, the DNR License Center in St. Paul, or online for renewals. A watercraft license is not required for non-motorized watercraft 10 ft or less, or for a watercraft owned by a person from another state that does not require licensing of that type and that is not in Minnesota more than 90 consecutive days. Registrations are good for 3 calendar years. Dealers apply for title and registration for new boats (except kayaks or canoes) longer than 16 feet.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boat and water safety education — Watercraft operator’s permit

    Minnesota DNR: NEW boater education requirements began July 1, 2025. A new law requires some adults and youth who operate motorboats—including personal watercraft—to have a valid watercraft operator’s permit, obtained by completing a state-approved boater safety education course. A rental course for persons 18+ who rent from a rental business (not resorts) is valid 180 days. Non-residents using Minnesota waterways fewer than 60 days who meet home-state/country requirements are not required to complete the rental course. Duplicate permits: DNR contact or ilostmycard.com.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Minnesota watercraft operator's permit

    Starting July 1, 2025, some adults and youth who operate motorboats including PWC must hold a watercraft operator's permit. Phase-in: born after June 30, 2004 (2025); June 30, 2000 (July 1, 2026); June 30, 1996 (2027); June 30, 1987 (2028). People born before July 1, 1987 generally are not required unless renting or serving as accompanying operator. Permit is obtained via a Minnesota NASBLA-approved course and is good for life.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Minnesota Boating Guide 2026 — BWI and navigation lights

    Guide: operating a motorboat while under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance (or its metabolite), or an intoxicating substance is unlawful. Alcohol concentration for impaired operation is .08. Tests may be required; refusal has a penalty. Navigation lights must be on from sunset to sunrise. PWC operation while intoxicated is also unlawful.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Child Life Jacket Wear Law summary

    Children less than 10 years of age must wear a life jacket when aboard watercraft in Minnesota when the craft is underway (not tied up at a dock or permanent mooring). Exemptions: enclosed cabin or below the top deck; an anchored boat used as a swimming/diving platform; a charter (passenger) craft with a licensed captain. The 2026 Boating Guide (same DNR program) also states a readily accessible wearable life jacket is required for each person onboard, including canoes, kayaks, SUPs, paddleboats, and waterfowl boats, plus one Type IV throwable on boats 16 feet or longer except canoes and kayaks.

    HandbookAgency page

Mississippi

Handbooks & guides

  • MDMR 2021 MS Boaters Guide PDF

    Mississippi Department of Marine Resources PDF "2021-MS-Boaters-Guide.pdf" (HTTP 200). DMR overview pages also link an "Online MS Boating Laws Handbook" that resolves to boat-ed.com (third-party, not used as source_url). MDWFP general-rules HTML was not reliably retrieved (empty/timeout). This PDF is an agency overview/checklist, not the full Mississippi Code.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Certificate of number; optional boat/motor title

    MDWFP: Mississippi law requires all sailboats and every undocumented vessel equipped with propulsion machinery using territorial and navigable waters of Mississippi to be registered and numbered. Owner has 10 days from acquisition to register. Registrations valid for three consecutive years. Keep registration card onboard; display MI number on each side of the bow (3-inch block, contrast, hyphens or equivalent spaces); decals within six inches of the numbers. Boat and motor titling is OPTIONAL in Mississippi; boat must be registered before being titled; title applications processed at MDWFP Headquarters. DMR overview: Certificate Number and validation decals required to operate a motorized boat or a sailboat on public waters; buyer must transfer Certificate of Number within 10 days of purchase.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boater education certification

    MDWFP and Mississippi DMR: any person born after June 30, 1980, must complete a boater education course approved by MDWFP before operating a boat in Mississippi and must have proof of completion in possession while operating a boat or PWC. Persons under 12 years of age must be accompanied onboard by a person 21 or older in order to operate the boat. Certificate must be carried onboard whenever the vessel is operated by someone required to have it. MDWFP classroom minimum age to be certified is 10.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating under the influence and navigation lights

    DMR and MDWFP: the Alcohol Boating Safety Act makes it unlawful to operate a watercraft on the public waters of Mississippi while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any other substance which has impaired the person's ability to operate a watercraft. MDWFP news reiterates BUI is illegal; this retrieval did not capture a BAC numeric threshold on an MDWFP/DMR HTML page (do not invent a percentage). MDWFP general-rules page (search-indexed) lists first-conviction penalties as a fine of $250-$1,000 or jail not more than 24 hours or both plus a boating safety course, with escalating penalties for subsequent convictions within five years including a felony fourth offense; that HTML did not fully load in this environment, so treat penalty details as needing confirmation on the live MDWFP page. Navigation lights: DMR equipment checklist marks navigation lights required for boats less than 16 ft and 16 ft to less than 26 ft; for PWC, footnote 7 strongly recommends not operating after dark, but if operated at night a PWC has the same VDS and navigation-light requirements as a boat less than 16 feet. DMR overview does not separately spell sunset-to-sunrise wording on the lights section beyond the checklist.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    DMR rules overview: all vessels must carry one wearable USCG-approved PFD for each person onboard; vessels 16 feet or longer must have one Type IV USCG-approved PFD onboard and readily accessible. Anyone 12 years of age and younger must wear a Type I, II, or III USCG-approved PFD whenever underway in a vessel under 26 feet. Each person riding on or being towed behind a PWC must wear a Type I, II, or III USCG-approved PFD. PFDs must be USCG-approved, good and serviceable, readily accessible, and proper size. DMR checklist footnote: those on PWCs must wear a Type I, II, or III PFD at all times. Additional PWC wear rule on marine waters south of I-10 is stated on the DMR overview for persons riding on or towed behind a PWC.

    HandbookAgency page

Missouri

Handbooks & guides

  • Missouri Boating Laws & Responsibilities Handbook — GAP on allowed host

    MSHP Water Patrol lists a Boating Laws & Responsibilities Handbook; the PDF href on the official handbooks page is assets.kalkomey.com (outside .gov/DNR/nasbla.org). No working MSHP .gov copy of that full handbook was retrieved (SHP-651.pdf on mshp.dps.mo.gov is the equipment brochure “What You Need On The Water,” HTTP 200, not the full laws handbook). Official full handbook PDF on an allowed host: missing (gap). Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Boat/Vessel/Outboard Motor Titling and Registration (Missouri DOR)

    All motorized boats or vessels and any sailboats longer than 12 ft must be titled and registered at a Missouri license office (Form 93, MSO or assigned title, prior-year paid personal property tax receipt or non-assessment). Title within 60 days of purchase ($10 penalty on day 61, +$10 each 30 days, max $30). Registration is three years, expiring June 30 of the year on the decal; no late-renewal penalty. Carry the pocket card; you receive an MO number and decals. All outboard motors except trolling and electric outboards must be titled and registered. Exempt: paddle/oar-only (any length), sailboats/sailboards 12 ft or less, U.S. government, out-of-state owned and kept/operated in Missouri less than 60 consecutive days, foreign craft under 60 days, ship’s lifeboats. USCG-documented vessels are not titled but must be registered. Temporary permit up to 30 days (60 days if documented) from a license office. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boater Education Law FAQ (Missouri State Highway Patrol Water Patrol)

    Missouri does not issue a recreational boat operator’s license. Operators must carry a NASBLA-approved boater safety card or a boater-safety endorsement on a driver’s license as required by RSMo 306.127. As of the FAQ retrieve: on Aug. 28, 2026, the law is amended so anyone born after Jan. 1, 1984, and before Jan. 1, 2006, who operates a motorized boat or sailboat over 12 ft on the lakes of this state must carry the card or license endorsement on the boat. Effective Jan. 1, 2027, anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 2006, who operates a motorized boat or sailboat over 12 ft on the waters of this state must carry the card or endorsement. Operator must be 14 unless an adult is aboard; a child under 14 with adult supervision still needs the card. PWC operators need the card. Out-of-state NASBLA cards are recognized if carried aboard. Water Patrol card fee $15. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BWI (SHP-44) and navigation lights (RSMo 306.100)

    BWI: Missouri prohibits operating a vessel while intoxicated due to alcohol or any combination of alcohol, controlled substances, or drugs. SHP-44 defines intoxicated as BAC of .08% or higher; implied consent; refusal may bring additional consequences. BWI is a class B misdemeanor; class A if a prior boating offender or if a person under 17 is present. Conviction requires a certified boater safety course before operating again. Lights (RSMo 306.100): from sunset to sunrise when underway, Class A and 1 vessels need a bright white all-round light aft and a combined red/green bow light; Class 2 and 3 need a 20-point white light forward, all-round white aft higher than the forward light, and screened red/green sidelights. White lights visible at least 2 miles; colored lights at least 1 mile. Vessels not underway (unless at permanent dockage or attached so they do not extend more than 50 ft from shore) need a 360-degree white light. Watercraft not defined as vessels must have a lantern or flashlight ready to avert collision. Federal COLREGS lights may be used in lieu of subsection 2. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Wear Your Life Jacket (MSHP) and RSMo 306.100

    MSHP: Missouri law requires a USCG-approved life jacket on board and accessible for each occupant. Children under seven must wear a life jacket whenever they are on a boat unless they are in the cabin of a houseboat or cruiser. All personal watercraft users must wear life jackets anytime they are underway. RSMo 306.100: every vessel except Class A shall have at least one wearable Type I, II, or III PFD for each person on board and each person being towed who is not wearing one, plus at least one Type IV throwable; Class A motorboats and all watercraft shall have at least one Type I, II, III, or IV PFD for each such person. Devices must be USCG-approved, serviceable, and readily accessible. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Montana

Handbooks & guides

Registration & numbering

  • Title and number via county treasurer; permanent registration

    FWP: sailboats 12 ft and longer and all motorboats and PWC must be registered and numbered. Exempt: non-motorized sailboats under 12 ft, manually propelled boats of any length, a vessel's lifeboat, government-owned boats. Certificate of ownership (title) and certificate of number from the County Treasurer where the owner resides; certificate of number carried onboard. Nonresidents properly registered elsewhere: up to 90 consecutive days. MCA 61-3-321 permanent registration of motorboats, PWC, motorized pontoons, and sailboats 12 ft and longer. 2026 booklet: validation stickers no longer required for registered boats.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Youth motor/PWC age and safety certificate

    FWP: children 12 or younger may not operate a motorboat or PWC powered by more than 10 hp unless accompanied by someone 18+. Youths 13 and 14 may not operate those vessels without a valid Montana motorboat operator's safety certificate or evidence of an approved boating safety course, or unless accompanied by someone 18+. Adults not described as needing a statewide operator license. Must be 18+ to rent a motorboat or PWC over 10 hp.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BUI and navigation lights

    FWP 2026 booklet and FWP news: unlawful to operate or be in actual physical control of a motorboat, PWC, sailboat, water skis, surfboard or similar while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Numeric BAC is not stated on the FWP news reminder or the extracted 2026 booklet BUI paragraph retrieved here; not invented. Lights: between sunset and sunrise and in restricted visibility, vessels in operation must display navigational lights. White lights visible at least 2 miles; colored lights at least 1 mile. Green starboard, red port, white all-round (usually stern, higher than sidelights). Non-motorized may carry a white light instead.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Montana BUI (2026 FWP boating laws PDF)

    The official 2026 booklet prohibits operating a powerboat, sailboat, PWC, water skis, sailboard, or similar device while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    2026 Montana Boating Laws PDF: USCG-approved life jackets must fit, be readily accessible, and in good condition. Children under 12 must wear a life jacket on a boat less than 26 ft that is in motion. Wearable USCG-approved PFDs readily available to all persons on the vessel. Vessels 16 ft and longer: one wearable for each person plus one USCG-approved throwable immediately available.

    Handbook

Nebraska

Handbooks & guides

  • Boating Guide, 2026 (Nebraska Game and Parks / state publications)

    Official 2026 OutdoorNebraska Boating Guide (G1000/H006-2026). HTTP 200 at govdocs.nebraska.gov. Advisory summary of state boating regulations, orders, and statutes (Neb. Rev. Stat. 84-901.03 disclaimer). Covers who may operate, registration, PFDs, lighting, and BUI. Digital flipbook also exists at digital.outdoornebraska.gov. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Boat registration — Nebraska Boating Guide 2026

    All vessels powered by any mechanical device (gas, electric, or diesel) capable of propelling the vessel on public or private waters of Nebraska must be registered, including eFoils. Unpowered vessels are excepted. New registrations only from the county treasurer in the owner’s county of residence; renewals at the county treasurer or Nebraska DMV (clickdmv.ne.gov). Motorboat registrations are three years, expiring Dec. 31 of the third year; do not operate after that date without renewal. Carry the certificate for inspection whenever the motorboat is afloat. The 2026 guide and NGPC pages (search-indexed) list class fees (Class 1 under 16 ft and all canoes $32 plus $4 issuing fee, etc.). Motorboats manufactured after 1972 must have a valid HIN; title from the county clerk before the treasurer issues registration (pre-1972 motorboats exempt from titling but not registration). Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Operator license & education

  • Who may operate — Nebraska Boating Guide 2026

    Nebraska does not issue a recreational boat operator’s license. Anyone operating a motorboat or PWC must be at least 14. Any operator born after Dec. 31, 1985, must have successfully completed the Nebraska boating safety course and possess a valid certificate while operating. Nonresidents may present certification from their state or another NASBLA-approved source. Course options in the 2026 guide: six-hour course with proctored exam; home study then review with proctored exam; or online at the listed vendor; 75% to pass. NGPC boater-education HTML on outdoornebraska.gov was blocked (Cloudflare) from this fetch environment; the state publications PDF is the allowed source used here. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Operation rules

  • BUI and lighting — Nebraska Boating Guide 2026

    BUI: it is unlawful to operate a motorboat in Nebraska with BAC of .08% or greater. Penalty up to $1,000, up to six months in jail, and loss of boating privileges for six months. Refusal of a chemical blood-alcohol test carries the same penalties. Lights: all vessels in use from sunset to sunrise shall display specified lights; no other lights except a spotlight for difficult navigation. Every prescribed white light visible at least 2 miles; every colored light at least 1 mile, green to starboard and red to port, screened from dead ahead to 22.5 degrees rearward. Mechanically powered sailboats display the lights required for that mechanical class. All motorboats and sailboats shall carry a lantern or flashlight for emergencies. Anchored vessels shall display the 360-degree white light except in a docking or anchorage area. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Personal flotation devices — Nebraska Boating Guide 2026

    Every vessel except sailboards must carry one wearable USCG-approved PFD of suitable size, readily accessible, for each person on board. Title 163 Ch. 3 (NGPC regs, 2023 PDF on outdoornebraska.gov): children less than 13 must wear a suitable USCG-approved PFD at all times aboard any vessel except when hunting waterfowl in an anchored vessel; operators are responsible. Guide additional carriage: vessels less than 26 ft must also carry one USCG-approved throwable; 26–40 ft a throwable 20-, 24-, or 30-inch ring buoy. Devices must be in good and serviceable condition. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Nevada

Handbooks & guides

  • 2026 Handbook for Nevada Boating Laws PDF

    NDOW rules page links Handbook of Nevada Boating Laws: https://www.ndow.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/2026-Handbook-for-Nevada-Boating-Laws.pdf HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01 (~3.9 MB). Agency education handbook. NRS Chapter 488 is the statute source.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Motorboat Certificate of Number via NDOW

    NDOW handbook/blog: Nevada Certificate of Number and validation decals required to operate on Nevada public waters except non-motorized vessels (sailboats without engines, canoes, kayaks, etc.), vessels properly registered in another state using Nevada waters 90 or fewer consecutive days, and ships' lifeboats. Card onboard. Certificate valid until December 31 of the year issued. AIS decal required to operate on Nevada waters. New/untitled and out-of-state title transactions at NDOW offices (not Reno HQ).

    HandbookAgency page
  • Nevada vessel numbering (NDOW handbook)

    The handbook requires numbering/registration except as listed (including vessels properly registered in another state using Nevada waters for the visiting period stated in the book). All vessels that require registration must also be titled.

    Handbook

Operator license & education

  • Born on/after 1/1/1983 education on interstate waters >15 hp

    NDOW: boaters born on or after January 1, 1983, must complete an NDOW-approved boater education course before operating a boat on interstate waters; applies to motors exceeding 15 horsepower. Interstate waters means waters forming the boundary between Nevada and an adjoining state. Handbook: every operator of a rental vessel must receive a safety briefing. Not a statewide operator license for all waters/ages.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Nevada BUI (2026 handbook; NRS 488)

    Nevada law as summarized in the 2026 handbook prohibits operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. A person is considered under the influence with BAC of 0.08% or more, or if alcohol/controlled substance renders the person incapable of safe operation. Official NRS Chapter 488 HTTP 200.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Nevada navigation lights (2026 NDOW handbook)

    Required navigation lights must be displayed between sunset and sunrise and during restricted visibility. Vessels not underway outside a designated mooring area display an all-around white light between sunset and sunrise as described.

    Handbook
  • OUI 0.08 and navigation lights

    NDOW handbook: illegal to operate a powerboat, sailboat, PWC, water skis, sailboard or similar while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. BAC 0.08% or more, or under the influence to a degree that renders the person incapable of operating safely. Implied consent to evidentiary alcohol testing. NRS 488.410 (Legislature): 0.08 in blood or breath. Lights: required navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and in restricted visibility. Power-driven under 65.6 ft: red/green sidelights and all-round white (if under 39.4 ft) or masthead plus sternlight. Unpowered may use lantern/flashlight if under 23 ft when sidelights not practical. White all-round when moored/anchored outside a designated mooring area at night.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    2026 NDOW handbook: USCG-approved life jacket for each person on board or being towed (includes paddleboards). Vessels 16–40 ft: one USCG-approved throwable immediately available; 40 ft or longer: two throwables (one front, one rear). Children under 13 must wear a USCG-approved life jacket whenever underway unless in a fully enclosed area. SUPs are vessels; carry a fitting life jacket; children under 13 must wear one at all times. Every person on a PWC must wear a life jacket.

    Handbook

New Hampshire

Handbooks & guides

  • New Hampshire Boaters Guide

    RSA 270-D:2-a requires the Department of Safety, Division of State Police, to publish the New Hampshire Boaters Guide. Marine Patrol’s commercial study-materials page points to an off-site Boat-Ed handbook (not used as a source). No live .gov handbook PDF was fetched (gap).

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Boat Registrations (DMV)

    Any boat operated on the public waters of New Hampshire, including tidal, coastal, and inland waters, must be registered and display the DMV bow number unless exempt under RSA 270-E:4. Registrations expire December 31 of the year issued. Marine Patrol separately states all powerboats (including electric) must be registered and all sailboats 12 feet and over must be registered. The registration certificate must be kept on the boat when operated; every NH-registered boat must display a bow number (NH plus four numbers and one or two letters) and a current decal.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boating Education

    Everyone 16 years of age and older who operates a motorboat over 25 horsepower on New Hampshire waters must have a boating education certificate. Accepted credentials include a NASBLA-approved certificate issued by another state agency, US Power Squadron, US Coast Guard Auxiliary, or an unexpired commercial boating license from the USCG or New Hampshire. Final exams require at least 80%. RSA 270-D (linked from Marine Patrol Laws & Rules) allows a physical original, copy, electronic copy, or photograph showing front and back of the certificate.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Alcohol aboard / impairment

    Marine Patrol FAQs state it is legal to have alcohol aboard a vessel, but operators found to be impaired to any degree will be arrested for boating while intoxicated. Local ordinances may prohibit alcohol in public places. A numeric BAC was not stated on this fetched FAQ.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Use your lights

    NH Fish and Game’s boating-and-access page states all boats operating after sunset until sunrise must display visible lights. RSA 270-D rental checklists also list “navigational lights requirements” among marine laws. Detailed COLREGS configurations were not on the fetched DMV/Marine Patrol HTML pages.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets (Marine Patrol education FAQs)

    Marine Patrol’s boating-education FAQs state all children 12 years old and younger must wear a life jacket when being transported in a boat, and recommend everyone wear a life jacket. Carriage counts for wearable/throwable devices were not spelled out on the fetched education or registration pages.

    HandbookAgency page

New Jersey

Handbooks & guides

  • Boating Safety Manual (Rev. 06.25)

    The New Jersey State Police Boating Safety Manual PDF (revision dated 06.25, file 20250625) returned HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01. MVC still also lists an older 3/2011 manual link. NJSP marine-services HTML moved to njsp.njoag.gov.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • How to title and register a boat

    To use New Jersey waterways, boats must be titled and registered except listed exemptions (not based in NJ or operating less than 180 consecutive days; foreign and U.S. public vessels; ship’s lifeboats; non-motorized vessels used only on small private lakes/ponds; permitted racing vessels; non-motorized inflatables, surfboards, racing shells, dinghies, canoes and kayaks; non-motorized vessels less than 12 feet; tenders used solely between a vessel and shore). Boats 12 feet or less or USCG-documented vessels do not receive a NJ title. Boats must be titled within 10 working days of purchase or a $25 penalty applies. Documented vessels operated in NJ more than 180 days or stored/moored/serviced in NJ on other than a transient basis must be registered in NJ.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • How to get a Motorboat or Jet Ski License

    MVC issues motorboat and PWC licenses for fresh, non-tidal waters. A boat license and New Jersey Boat Safety Certificate are required to operate a power vessel or PWC on non-tidal waters; a boat license is not required for non-powered vessels. Applicants must be at least 16 (under 17 need parental consent), present a NJ Boating Safety Course Certificate and 6 points of ID, and pay the listed license fee. For any power motorboat operation on tidal waters, a NJSP-approved boating safety course and New Jersey Boating Safety Course Certificate are required. The June 2025 Boating Safety Manual states there are no exemptions to NJ age requirements; persons under 13 cannot operate any power vessel; ages 13–15 with a NJ certificate may operate an electric-only vessel or a vessel 12 feet or longer with less than 10 HP; 16+ with a NJ certificate may operate any power vessel including PWC. Out-of-state residents at least 16 in NJ less than 90 days may operate if they possess their home-state certificate or written proof of a course approved by another state, USCG, or NASBLA.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Operating a vessel under the influence

    The NJSP Boating Safety Manual states you may not operate a vessel while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, a narcotic, hallucinogenic or habit-producing drug, or with a BAC of 0.08% or more, and an owner or person in control may not allow such a person to operate. For BAC 0.08% or higher but less than 0.10%, the manual lists a fine of $250–$400, loss of vessel operating privilege for 12 months from conviction, and forfeiture of the driver’s license for three months. For BAC 0.10% or higher, or drug impairment, it lists a fine of $300–$500, one-year loss of vessel privilege, and driver’s license forfeiture of seven to twelve months. Second-offense fines of $500–$1,000 plus community service and imprisonment terms are described.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Personal flotation devices

    No person shall operate or allow operation of any vessel on NJ waters unless it has a USCG-approved wearable PFD of the correct size for each person on board, of the type and number required by the Coast Guard for that class of vessel, except surfboards, racing shells, rowing sculls, and racing kayaks. Every child 12 or younger must wear a properly fitted USCG-approved PFD whenever the vessel is underway. From November 1 through May 1, no owner or operator of a recreational vessel less than 26 feet (including rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards) shall permit operation unless each person on board is wearing a securely fastened USCG-approved wearable PFD of appropriate size while underway; a person inside the cabin of a cabin vessel is exempt.

    Handbook

New Mexico

Handbooks & guides

  • 18.17.2 NMAC Boat Act regulations PDF

    No Kalkomey-style recreational handbook PDF found on emnrd.nm.gov (Boat New Mexico home-study guide is offered by mail / online student portal). Official SPD-hosted 18.17.2 NMAC PDF HTTP 200: https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/18.17.2-NMAC-replaced-7.26.24.pdf. Companion HTML: required-safety-equipment and regulations pages. Not a substitute for the Boat Act / Boating While Intoxicated Act.

    Handbook
  • New Mexico official rec handbook PDF not found

    EMNRD State Parks publishes boating education, equipment, and regulations HTML pages and an online Boat New Mexico study guide. A guessed NMBoatingHandbook.pdf path returned HTTP 404. Print study guides are available by email request per the education page. handbook_url left blank (gap).

    HandbookAgency page

Registration & numbering

  • Motor/sail numbering via MVD; 3-year term; title if 10 ft+

    SPD Registrations: registration card and validation decal required if the vessel is propelled by machinery, or propelled/designed to be propelled by sail (except sailboard/windsurf board). Card carried onboard. Period runs three years, Jan 1 of issue year through Dec 31 of the third year. Titling/registration handled by Taxation and Revenue Motor Vehicle Division; vessels that require registration and are 10 ft or longer must also be titled; title application within 30 days of sale.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boater education card if born on/after 1/1/1989

    NM State Parks: required to have a boater education card if you operate a vessel propelled by a motor (gas and/or electric) or a sailboat, unless born before January 1, 1989; or a nonresident holding a valid card from another state; or renting with rental-agent instruction and dockside checklist; or operating a government vessel exempt from state registration. 30-day new-purchase and 45-day new-resident exemptions as stated. Children under 13 may not operate a motorboat except under an adult's onboard supervision (18.17.2 NMAC). Card valid for life. Carry card when required (18.17.4 NMAC).

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  • New Mexico boater education card (18.17.4 NMAC)

    Persons born on or after January 1, 1989 who operate a motorboat on state waters must possess a division-issued boater education card onboard unless an exception in 18.17.4 NMAC applies. The card is valid for life. Children under 13 may not operate a motorboat except under an adult's onboard supervision (18.17.2 NMAC as posted on the equipment page).

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Operation rules

  • BUI 0.08 and navigation lights

    SPD regulations: illegal to operate under the influence of alcohol or any drug or controlled substance; illegal at BAC 0.08 or higher. Applies to all vessels including kayaks/canoes/paddleboards (registration page). Lights: properly working lights required from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise (66-12-7 NMSA and 18.17.2 NMAC). Power-driven: combination red/green on the fore part and a white light aft showing 360 degrees above the combination light. Human-powered: flashlight or other white light exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision during those hours.

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  • New Mexico navigation lights

    Equipment pages: properly working lights must be displayed from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise (NMSA 66-12-7 and 18.17.2 NMAC). Human-powered craft must exhibit a flashlight or other white light in sufficient time to prevent collision during those hours.

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Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    SPD life-jackets and required-equipment pages / 18.17.2 NMAC: all vessels must have at least one USCG-approved wearable for each person on board. All vessels except PWC, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and rubber rafts must have one USCG-approved throwable. Every person on a PWC, canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or rubber raft must wear a USCG-approved life jacket. Children under 13 must wear a USCG-approved life jacket while underway unless below deck or in an enclosed cabin (SPD page; NMAC 18.17.2.9 states age 12 or under). Wear also required when towed, on a river, or in a boat race. PFDs USCG-approved, good condition, proper size, readily accessible.

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New York

Handbooks & guides

  • New York State Boater's Guide (Parks landing)

    NYS Parks boating page hosts the official New York State Boater's Guide (English/Spanish digital editions) covering registration, operation, equipment, and rules of the waterway. Direct nxtbook URLs returned HTTP 403 to this fetch; the official Parks HTML landing is the verified public source.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Register a Boat

    NY DMV: boats without a motor need not be registered; any motor (electric or fuel-driven) requires registration regardless of boat or motor size. Registrations last 3 years. Exemptions include a lifeboat, a boat registered in another state and not kept in NY more than 90 consecutive days, certain documented commercial boats, and a boat racing in competition. Titles are issued for boats that are model year 1987 and newer, at least 14 feet long, and registered in New York (not for USCG-documented boats). Stickers go 18 inches from the bow on both sides.

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Operator license & education

  • Boating Education — Brianna’s Law

    Brianna’s Law requires all operators of motorized vessels, including PWCs and specialty craft, to complete a state-approved safe boating course. Students must be at least 10. Temporary certificate is valid 90 days until the permanent certificate arrives. Safe Boating Certificates are good for life; the original physical certificate must be on the person or onboard while operating a motorized boat (or a NY DMV Adventure License with anchor icon, valid only in New York). Persons 18+ may rent from a livery without a certificate if staff provide basic instruction; under 18 may rent only with a safety certificate. Non-motorized operators are not required to take the course.

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Operation rules

  • Boating — navigation lights; BUI as stated on Parks pages

    Parks required-equipment lists for motorboats include navigation lights. Parks’ Operation Dry Water materials (linked from Parks news) state it is illegal to operate a vessel with a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher. This operation row uses the Parks boating landing for lights/equipment; BUI numeric limit is also stated on Parks press materials at https://parks.ny.gov/news/press-releases/new-york-state-park-police-department-environmental-conservation-join-operation

    Handbook
  • New York BUI and navigation lights

    NYS Parks and DEC state it is illegal to operate a vessel with BAC of 0.08 percent or higher, or while impaired by drugs, on all waters. Recreational vessels must display required navigational lights between sunset and sunrise and during restricted visibility. Motorboat equipment lists include navigation lights; Parks student materials note unpowered/small sail options for a white lantern.

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Safety equipment

  • Boating — Personal Flotation Devices and required equipment

    One life jacket is required for each person on any motorized or non-motorized vessel, PWC, sailboat, kayak, canoe, or paddle board. Jackets must be USCG-approved, readily accessible, free of fading/rips/tears, and the proper size. A PFD must be worn Nov. 1–May 1 on any pleasure boat under 21 feet; by anyone under 12 (unless in an enclosed cabin) on a motorboat under 65 feet or any other pleasure boat; and by anyone being towed. Motorboat equipment lists include navigation lights and, for boats 16 feet to less than 26 feet, a throwable Type IV.

    Handbook

North Carolina

Handbooks & guides

  • North Carolina Vessel Operator’s Guide

    Official NC Wildlife Resources Commission Vessel Operator’s Guide PDF (updated through February 1, 2022 per the guide). HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01 at /vessel-operators-guide/download. Also embedded from the Laws & Safety page.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • North Carolina vessel registration and titling

    All motorized vessels on public waters (including electric trolling motors) and sailboats longer than 14 feet at the load waterline must be registered. Titling required for vessels 14 feet or greater and all PWCs (and vessels with a lien). Register 1 or 3 years via GoOutdoorsNorthCarolina, mail, or Wildlife Service Agent with VL-1. Out-of-state vessels in NC over 90 consecutive days generally must register.

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  • Registration and Titling

    All motorized vessels used on public waters must be registered, including jet skis. Sailboats longer than 14 feet at the load waterline must be registered. Vessels 14 ft or greater and all PWCs must be titled at registration. Out-of-state vessels in NC over 60 consecutive days must transfer registration (active-duty military temporarily stationed in NC with valid out-of-state registration are exempt). Exemptions: unused vessels on dry land; rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and rafts moved only by oars, paddles, or current; private-pond vessels; emergency-only lifeboats/dinghies. USCG documented vessels in NC over 60 days must be registered but generally not state-titled.

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Operator license & education

  • Laws & Safety — boater education certificate

    Any person born on or after January 1, 1988, must complete a NASBLA-approved boating education course before operating any vessel propelled by a motor of 10 HP or greater on public waterways (G.S. 75A-16.2) and carry the certificate onboard. For PWCs, a certificate is also required for operators 14 or older; no person under 14 may operate a PWC. Persons 14 or older may operate a PWC without a certificate if physically accompanied on the PWC by an adult at least 18 who meets G.S. 75A-16.2.

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  • North Carolina boating education (G.S. 75A-16.2)

    Any person born on or after January 1, 1988 must successfully complete a NASBLA-approved boating education course before operating any vessel propelled by a motor of 10 HP or greater. Carry the certificate. PWC: no operator under 14; persons 14 or older may operate without a certificate if accompanied on the PWC by an adult at least 18 who meets G.S. 75A-16.2.

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  • Take a Boater Education Course (NC Wildlife)

    Any person born on or after January 1, 1988 must complete a NASBLA-approved boating education course before operating any vessel propelled by a motor of 10 HP or greater. Instructor-led courses have no minimum age but coursework is at a sixth-grade level with an unassisted written exam. The Commission lists approved online providers and notes it only maintains records for courses offered through the agency; students using other providers must keep their own completion documentation.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Impaired boating / Operation Dry Water (NCWRC press release, 2026-06-26)

    NCWRC states it is unlawful to operate a recreational vessel with an alcohol concentration of .08 or higher, or while being appreciably impaired by alcohol, drugs or other impairing substances. The release describes Operation Dry Water as a NASBLA/USCG campaign with heightened July 4 enforcement. The same agency’s Vessel Operator’s Guide (through Feb. 1, 2022) states no person shall operate any motorboat or vessel, or manipulate water skis or similar devices, while under the influence of an impairing substance, nor operate any motor vessel after consuming alcohol sufficient to cause a BAC of 0.08 or greater.

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  • Inland Lighting Rules (NC Wildlife PDF)

    NCWRC’s Inland Lighting Rules PDF states vessels operating at night are required to display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise. Powered vessels less than 12 meters (39.4 ft) may use specified lighting arrangements; the white masthead light must be at least 1 meter (3.3 ft) higher than the colored sidelights. Vessels 12 meters but less than 20 meters (65.6 ft) have specified arrangements, with masthead light at least 2.5 meters (8.2 ft) higher than sidelights. A vessel less than 50 meters at anchor should display an all-round white light visible for two miles, except vessels less than 7 meters (23 ft) unless anchored in or near a narrow channel, fairway, or anchorage. On state waters not subject to U.S. jurisdiction, vessels of 10 horsepower or less may instead carry a white stern light or ready flashlight from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise; that exception is not sanctioned by federal law on waters subject to U.S. jurisdiction. PWCs are not allowed to operate between sunset and sunrise (Laws & Safety checklist).

    HandbookAgency page
  • Laws & Safety — navigation lights and PWC night rule

    Boats less than 26 feet must have navigation lights. Nighttime visual distress signals and navigation lights are listed for PWCs as not applicable because PWCs are not allowed to operate between sunset and sunrise. The page does not state a numeric BUI BAC; it refers readers to the Vessel Operator’s Guide for full legal requirements.

    HandbookAgency page
  • North Carolina BUI and inland navigation lights

    NCWRC: a vessel operator with BAC that meets or exceeds .08, or who is appreciably impaired by alcohol and/or drugs, is subject to arrest. Vessels operating at night must display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise. Power/sail lighting configurations vary by length; small unpowered craft may use a white torch/lantern in time to prevent collision. Inland Lighting Rules PDF is on ncwildlife.gov.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Children Must Wear PFDs (NC Wildlife)

    North Carolina requires anyone younger than 13 to wear an appropriate life vest when on a recreational vessel that is underway. Anyone riding a personal watercraft or being towed by one must also wear an appropriate life vest. State and federal regulations as restated here require a Type I, II or III personal flotation device in good condition and of appropriate size be accessible for each person onboard a recreational vessel, including canoes, kayaks, rowboats and other non-motorized craft. Sailboards, racing shells, rowing sculls, racing canoes and racing kayaks are exempt from this requirement.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Laws & Safety — PFDs

    On boats less than 26 feet, children under 13 must wear an approved life jacket while underway. Those on PWCs must wear an approved PFD (Type I, II, or III) at all times. Boats 16 feet to less than 26 feet also require a Type IV PFD. Certificate of number and validation decals are listed on the official checklist with these equipment items.

    HandbookAgency page
  • North Carolina PFD carriage and children under 13

    Anyone younger than 13 must wear an appropriate life vest when on a recreational vessel that is underway. Anyone on a PWC or being towed by one must wear an appropriate vest. Type I, II, or III PFD in good condition and appropriate size must be accessible for each person on recreational vessels including canoes, kayaks, and rowboats (with listed racing-craft exemptions).

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North Dakota

Handbooks & guides

  • Boating Safety Guide (2026–2028) (ND Game and Fish)

    Official HTML Boating Safety Guide for the Jan. 1, 2026–Dec. 31, 2028, registration cycle. HTTP 200. Covers registration, operator ages, PFDs, BUI (.10), lighting, PWC, and ANS. North Dakota is a registration state and does not issue titles for watercraft, motors, or trailers. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Watercraft Registration and Renewal (NDGF)

    Owners of any watercraft propelled by a motor and used primarily in North Dakota must register with Game and Fish (including kayaks/canoes/pedal boats if a motor is placed, eFoils, GoBoats). Carry the Certificate of Number when in operation; it is proof of ownership. New boats and ownership transfers must be completed online; submit within 15 days. Cycle Jan. 1, 2026–Dec. 31, 2028 (fees prorated): under 16 ft and all motorized canoes $30; 16 ft to under 20 ft $45; 20 ft and over $60; plus $15 ANS fee concurrent with the cycle. Out-of-state numbered motorboats: 90-day reciprocity, then ND numbering; nonresident motorized craft also need a $15 annual ANS sticker. Decals expire on change of ownership and are not transferable. Display 3-inch block numbers on each side of the forward half with the validation decal within 6 inches toward the rear. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boat operator requirements and Boat North Dakota (NDGF)

    North Dakota does not require a recreational boat operator’s license for adults. No person under 12 may operate a motorboat (including PWC) of more than 10 hp unless accompanied by a person 18 or older. Ages 12–15 may operate such a motorboat only if accompanied by a person 18+ or if they have taken and passed a department-approved boating course. The free home-study Boat North Dakota course is required for youth 12–15 who want to operate those vessels by themselves; cards are not issued until age 12. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating under influence and lighting (ND Boating Safety Guide)

    BUI: no person may operate a motorboat or vessel or manipulate water-skis or similar devices while intoxicated or under the influence of any narcotic, barbiturate, or marijuana. If alcohol, drug, or combination concentration is .10 or over, or the operator refuses testing, operator privileges may be revoked in addition to other penalties. The motorboat must be in motion, en route, not aground or at anchor, for intoxication testing. Legal-age open containers are not prohibited. Lights: all motorboats operating sunset to sunrise shall exhibit a proper light display. Under 26 ft: 20-point combination red/green bow light visible 1 mile and 32-point white stern light visible 2 miles, higher than the bow light. 26–65 ft: 20-point white bow light visible 2 miles, red and green 10-point sidelights visible 1 mile, and 32-point white stern light visible 2 miles. All vessels at anchor sunset to sunrise need a white anchor light visible from any direction (power boats under 65 ft and sailing vessels except in special anchorage areas). Nonpowered boats need a readily accessible white light exhibited in time to prevent collision. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Personal Flotation Devices — ND Boating Safety Guide and hunter safety page

    Class A (under 16 ft): one USCG-approved wearable PFD for each person aboard. Class 1 and larger: one wearable per person plus one Type IV throwable. Anyone being towed must wear a USCG-approved PFD. No person may operate or permit operation of a PWC without each person wearing a USCG-approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD. Occupants age 10 and under must wear their life jacket while the boat is in operation (hunter-safety page; guide cross-reference). Nonmotorized craft must have a wearable PFD for each person plus a whistle. PFDs must be serviceable. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Ohio

Handbooks & guides

  • Ohio Boat Operator's Guide (HTML landing)

    ODNR describes the Ohio Boat Operator’s Guide as a summary of Ohio boating laws (operator age, life jackets, equipment, registration/titling, sound signals, lighting, buoys). The HTML landing was indexed; the PDF URL https://ohiodnr.gov/static/documents/watercraft/OhioBoatOperatorsGuide.pdf returned HTTP 404 on 2026-09-01, so the handbook_url is the HTML landing rather than the dead PDF.

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  • Ohio Boat Operator’s Guide (ODNR Parks & Watercraft PDF on dam.assets.ohio.gov)

    The Ohio Boat Operator’s Guide PDF hosted on dam.assets.ohio.gov (Ohio DAM path ohiodnr.gov/documents/watercraft/OhioBoatOperatorsGuide.pdf) is a summary of Ohio boating laws and rules covering operator age, life jackets, required safety equipment, registration and titling, sound signals, lighting, and navigation markers. HTTP 200 confirmed 2026-09-01. Companion ohiodnr.gov HTML landings for the guide and registration FAQs returned HTTP 404 from this environment.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Frequently Asked Boat Registration Questions

    ODNR: to register a new or used boat, complete DNR8460R Certified Watercraft Registration Application and Affidavit of Ownership and mail with payment and proof of ownership to ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft, 2045 Morse Road, Building A-1, Columbus, OH 43229. Direct fetch of the FAQ timed out; content is from the official indexed ODNR FAQ and forms list (DNR8460R).

    HandbookAgency page
  • ORC 1547.53 and 1547.54 — Numbering and triennial registration

    ORC 1547.53 states every watercraft operated on the waters in this state shall be numbered by this state in accordance with federal law or a federally approved numbering system of another state, with listed exemptions (including out-of-state numbered craft not used in Ohio more than sixty days, certain government craft, and optional numbering for some canoes/rowboats/inflatables). ORC 1547.54 requires the owner of every watercraft requiring registration to file an application for a triennial registration certificate with the chief of the division of parks and watercraft; certificates are valid for three years. Upon approved application the chief assigns a number if required and issues a registration certificate that shall be on the watercraft and available for inspection when in operation (with a 72-hour presentment rule for certain unnumbered canoes/rowboats/inflatables). No registration certificate shall be issued for a watercraft required to be titled under Chapter 1548 except upon presentation of title, current USCG documentation, a renewal form, or an expired Ohio registration with no change in ownership or description.

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  • ORC 1548.01 and 1548.03 — Watercraft certificates of title

    ORC 1548.03 states no person shall sell or otherwise dispose of a watercraft or outboard motor without delivering a physical certificate of title with assignment, nor purchase or otherwise acquire one without obtaining a certificate of title in the person’s name; a purchaser may take possession and operate on Ohio waters without a title for a period not exceeding sixty days with a dealer’s dated bill of sale or, in a casual sale, a notarized bill of sale. ORC 1548.01 lists chapter exceptions, including USCG-documented watercraft, foreign watercraft temporarily using Ohio waters, government watercraft, a ship’s lifeboat, a canoe, a watercraft less than fourteen feet without a permanently affixed mechanical means of propulsion, a watercraft less than fourteen feet with permanently fixed propulsion of less than ten horsepower, and outboard motors of less than ten horsepower. Applications for title are filed with the clerk of any court of common pleas (ORC 1548.06).

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  • Ohio watercraft registration and title

    Guide and ORC: number and register watercraft before operation; tags typically valid up to three years expiring March 1. Title required for watercraft 14 feet or greater, watercraft under 14 feet with permanently affixed propulsion of 10 hp or more, and outboard motors 10 hp or more (ORC 1548). Titles are issued by county Clerk of Courts title offices—not BMV (BMV titles-new.aspx). Registration via Parks & Watercraft agents using DNR 8460R. Kiteboards, paddleboards, and belly boats/float tubes are exempt from registration/titling. Visitors numbered in another state may use Ohio waters not more than 60 days.

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Operator license & education

  • ORC 1547.05 — Completing boating course as prerequisite to licensing

    Except as provided in division (B), no person born on or after January 1, 1982, shall operate on the waters in this state a powercraft powered by more than ten horsepower unless the operator has successfully completed a NASBLA-approved safe boater course or a proctored or nonproctored proficiency examination testing that curriculum, and has received a certificate of successful completion. Division (B) exempts an individual who possesses valid USCG merchant mariner credentials with at least one endorsement of master or operator; that individual shall carry documentation onboard and present it to a natural resources officer or law enforcement officer upon request. No person shall permit a powercraft to be operated in violation of division (A).

    HandbookAgency page
  • Ohio Boat Operating Laws — boating education requirement

    WebSearch indexed this ODNR page (direct fetch returned 404 on one path). Indexed text: no person born on or after January 1, 1982, shall operate a powercraft powered by more than 10 horsepower unless the operator has a certificate from a NASBLA-approved boating course or an Ohio Division of Watercraft proficiency exam. USCG merchant mariner credential with master or operator endorsement is exempt if carried onboard. No person under 16 shall operate a PWC except 12–15 with a supervising person 18+ onboard (supervisor born on or after Jan. 1, 1982, must hold the education certificate). Children who operate vessels over 10 hp must meet ORC 1547.05 even while supervised. Because one URL variant 404’d, also see ODNR PWC page https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/land-water/inland-lakes/personal-watercraft for the same age/education rules.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • OAC 1501:47-2-20 and 1501:47-2-23 — Navigation lights

    Ohio Administrative Code 1501:47-2-20 states that rules concerning lights shall be complied with from sunset to sunrise local time, and during such times no other lights shall be exhibited except lights that cannot be mistaken for the specified lights or do not impair their visibility or distinctive character or interfere with a proper look-out. The prescribed lights shall also be exhibited from sunrise to sunset in restricted visibility. Rule 1501:47-2-23 states a power-driven vessel underway shall exhibit a masthead light forward, sidelights, and a sternlight (with specified length exceptions); a power-driven vessel of less than twelve meters in length may exhibit an all-round white light and sidelights in lieu of that arrangement. No person shall operate or permit operation of any vessel on the waters in this state in violation of that rule. Companion ohiodnr.gov “boating rules” HTML pages returned HTTP 404 from this environment.

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  • ORC 1547.11 — Operation under influence of alcohol or drug

    No person shall operate or be in physical control of any vessel underway, or manipulate water skis, an aquaplane, or similar device, if under the influence of alcohol, a drug of abuse, or a combination, or if whole-blood alcohol is eight-hundredths of one per cent or more (with parallel breath, urine, and serum thresholds). For persons under twenty-one, prohibited whole-blood alcohol includes at least two-hundredths of one per cent but less than eight-hundredths of one per cent. The section defines “operate” to include use on Ohio waters when the vessel is not securely affixed to a dock or shore or to a permanent structure, or not anchored in a designated anchorage or boat camping area.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Ohio Boat Operating Laws — lights listed among safety violations; BUI not extracted

    Indexed ODNR operating-laws page lists improper display of navigation lights among conditions that can render a vessel unsafe (with insufficient PFDs, fire extinguishers, fuel leaks, etc.). A numeric BUI/BAC statement was not extracted from a successful 200 fetch of an ODNR page (gap for BUI text). PWC page (fetched via search) states Ohio law requires attaching the engine cut-off lanyard and wearing a PFD approved for PWC use.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life Jackets (PFDs) on Boats

    ODNR indexed page: everyone onboard needs a life jacket; boats 16 feet or longer must also carry a Type IV throwable. PFDs must be USCG-approved, in good and serviceable condition, an appropriate size, and readily accessible. Recreational boats 16 feet or greater without one wearable Type I/II/III per person plus one Type IV, or less than 16 feet (and canoes/kayaks of any length) without one wearable per person, do not meet the rule. Type V may substitute if used per the label. Required-equipment-motorized page (same division) states any child less than 10 years of age must wear a properly fitted USCG-approved life jacket on specified vessels, and PWC occupants must wear a PFD approved for PWC use.

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  • ORC 1547.25 and 1547.24 — Personal flotation devices

    ORC 1547.25 prohibits operating any vessel (other than those exempted by rules) that is sixteen feet or greater without carrying one wearable PFD for each person aboard and one throwable PFD, or that is less than sixteen feet in length, including paddlecraft of any length, without one wearable PFD for each person aboard. Each PFD shall be Coast Guard approved, in good and serviceable condition, of appropriate size, readily accessible, and used in accordance with its approval label/manual. ORC 1547.24 separately provides that no person shall operate or permit operation of any vessel under eighteen feet in length while any person under ten years of age is present not wearing a Coast Guard approved wearable PFD in good and serviceable condition of appropriate size securely attached.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Ohio PFDs (ORC 1547.25 / 1547.24)

    Other than commercial vessels: 16 feet or greater need one wearable PFD per person plus one throwable; less than 16 feet and canoes/kayaks of any length need one wearable per person. Child rule: no operation of any vessel under 18 feet with a child less than 10 aboard unless the child wears a USCG-approved wearable PFD, good condition, appropriate size, securely attached. Each person on a PWC must wear a wearable PFD.

    Handbook

Oklahoma

Handbooks & guides

  • Official Oklahoma boating handbook — GAP

    No Oklahoma DNR/DPS/Service Oklahoma .gov PDF handbook returned 200. Public copies of a Kalkomey “Handbook of Oklahoma Boating Laws” live on assets.kalkomey.com / boat-ed.com, outside the allowed host set. Treat official handbook as missing (gap). Use DPS education and Service Oklahoma registration pages instead. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Boats & Motors (Service Oklahoma)

    Boats used or capable of being used as transportation on Oklahoma waters must be titled, registered, and taxed within 30 days of ownership and renewed every one or three years. Carry current registration in the boat while in operation. Boats and outboard motors are registered separately. Register or renew by July 1. Ownership documents include a notarized MSO for new vessels, assigned/notarized Oklahoma title, out-of-state title or (non-titling state) registration plus bill of sale, or bill of sale if from a state that neither titles nor registers. HIN verification (BM-10, etc.) is required on transfer. Andy’s Law: first renewal after Nov. 1, 2023, includes a carbon monoxide warning decal to place inside the vessel in plain view. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Oklahoma Boating Education (DPS/OHP) and OID summary

    Oklahoma does not require adult recreational boaters to complete a boating safety course. Oklahoma Insurance Department (quoting OHP): children ages 12–16 need a boating safety certificate to operate a motorboat with 10 or more horsepower. OHP Marine Enforcement offers a free 6-hour classroom Boat Oklahoma class; all listed courses are NASBLA-approved. The DPS boated.html FAQ headings exist but the bodies did not render in the fetch. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Operation rules

  • Operating a vessel under the influence (OHP/OID and Senate) and lights gap

    BUI: Lt. George Brown, OHP, as quoted by OID: anyone operating a vessel with 0.08 or more BAC is guilty of operating a vessel under the influence. Oklahoma Senate (SB 324, 2011) lowered BUI BAC from .10 to .08 to match DUI and added implied consent for blood or breath tests on state waters. Navigation lights: no statewide recreational lighting specification was found on a fetched oklahoma.gov/DPS/ODWC landing. GRDA lake rules on digitalprairie.ok.gov require vessels to have proper working navigation and anchoring lights as provided by law (agency rules, not a full statewide handbook). Statewide nav-light detail: gap. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets — Oklahoma Insurance Department / OHP

    OID, citing OHP: children 12 and under are required to wear a life jacket while riding in a boat; OHP recommends wear for everyone. Wear USCG-approved jackets that fit; do not use adult jackets for children. Statewide carriage of one USCG-approved flotation device per person is stated in Oklahoma Boating Safety Regulation Act materials; the OSCN statute text (63 O.S. 4206) is on oscn.net (not used as a CSV source). Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Oregon

Handbooks & guides

Registration & numbering

  • Oregon boat numbering (OSMB)

    All motorboats and sailboats 12 feet and longer: operators must carry a valid Certificate of Number; OR numbers and stickers on both sides of the bow. Current registration is required on those boats on Oregon waterways (ORS 830-700, OAR 250-010-0051 as cited). The 2026 handbook states motorized boats must be titled and registered; boats currently registered in other states have a visiting period described in the handbook.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Oregon boat titles (OSMB)

    OSMB titles and registers qualifying boats. Application for a Boat Title is in the official forms library. The 2026 handbook covers how to title and register.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Title and register motorboats and sailboats 12 ft+

    OSMB: all motorboats regardless of length must be titled and registered in Oregon. Sailboats 12 ft and longer must also be titled and registered, even when moored in Oregon waters (ORS 830.705(2)). Operators must carry a valid Certificate of Number; number and stickers on both sides of the front. Two-year registration cycle (expiration Dec 31 of the indicated year).

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boater Education Card for motors over 10 hp

    OSMB: all boaters who operate a motorboat with over 10 hp must complete an approved course and carry a Boating Safety Education Card. Must be 12 or older to get a card; youths 11 and under may not operate a motorboat. Ages 12–15 operating a motorboat of any size: over 10 hp only if accompanied by a person 16+ (18+ for PWC) with a card; 10 hp or less without an adult. Person 16+ needs a card for powerboat/PWC greater than 10 hp. Exemptions include current USCG Boat Operator License, current commercial fishing license when operating recreationally (carry that license), and a non-certified adult under direct supervision of a card-holding adult 16+ (18+ for PWC). Out-of-state: NASBLA card from another state; no 60-day visitor/new-boat exemption. Card fee $20.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BUII 0.08 and navigation lights

    OSMB statewide regulations and BUII rack card: operating a boat including non-motorized (rafts, kayaks, canoes) while under the influence of intoxicants is prohibited (ORS 830.325). BAC 0.08% is legally under the influence. Implied consent to field sobriety and breath tests. Class A misdemeanor: up to $6,250 and/or 1 year jail; boater education card/operation privilege and registrations can be suspended. Lights: all boats need running lights between sunset and sunrise and in restricted visibility. Power-driven and sailing configurations on OSMB Lights page; manually propelled boats under 23 ft may display sailboat lights or have a flashlight/lantern ready.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Oregon BUII (2026 OSMB handbook)

    The 2026 Experience Oregon Boating handbook: operation of any boat while under the influence of intoxicants is prohibited; blood alcohol level of .08 or more is considered under the influence.

    Handbook
  • Oregon navigation lights (OSMB)

    Equipment page: navigation lights required when underway or at anchor between sunset and sunrise and during restricted visibility. 2026 handbook: proper navigation lights required when away from the dock between sunset and sunrise.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    OSMB motor-propulsion page: boats under 26 ft carry properly fitting USCG-approved wearable life jackets for each person, readily accessible, plus a Type IV throwable. All children 12 and younger must wear a life jacket on an open deck or cockpit when a boat is underway or being towed. PWC: operator and passengers wear USCG-approved inherently buoyant life jackets approved for the activity; inflatable PFDs not approved for PWC operator use. Towed children 12 and under must wear a USCG-approved life jacket.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Oregon life jackets (OSMB equipment page)

    USCG-approved wearable life jacket of proper fit for each person, readily accessible. All children 12 and younger must wear a life jacket (on motorboats: while on an open deck or cockpit when underway or being towed). Boats 16 feet and over must also carry a Type IV throwable. Paddlecraft and sailboats under 16 ft: wearable PFDs; no throwable required as stated.

    HandbookAgency page

Pennsylvania

Handbooks & guides

Registration & numbering

  • Register/Title a Boat

    Boat registrations and titles are issued by PFBC. Registrations are valid for up to two years. Powered boats (gasoline, diesel, or electric) must be registered. Unpowered boats must be registered or display a launch permit to use PFBC or DCNR State Park or State Forest access. A valid registration card must be carried on the boat. Numbers must be painted or permanently attached to each side of the forward half, left to right, bold block at least 3 inches, contrasting, separated by a dash or space; validation decal within 6 inches of the number on the same level.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boating Safety Education Certificate

    Complete a PFBC-approved boating course and exam (online or classroom). All operators of personal watercraft must have a Boating Safety Education Certificate in possession. The official handbook (search-indexed) states certificates are required to operate a PWC and, for persons born on or after January 1, 1982, to operate boats powered by motors greater than 25 horsepower; approved permanent certificates for PA residents must be issued by PFBC; non-residents need a NASBLA-approved certificate. A person 11 or younger may not operate a PWC or a boat propelled by a motor greater than 25 horsepower.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating under the influence

    It is illegal to operate a watercraft on all waterways of the Commonwealth while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. Operating a recreational vessel with a BAC of 0.08 or higher is against the law. BUI also applies to drugs and some prescription medications.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Navigation lights

    Fetched PFBC HTML pages used for this census (registration, cold-weather PFD, hazards/BUI, FAQs) do not reprint navigation-light configurations. The official Boating Handbook PDF is the cited place for those diagrams (not separately extracted here).

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / cold-weather wear

    Each person in a canoe, kayak, rowboat or paddleboard must have a wearable USCG-approved life jacket of appropriate type, size, and fit. Children 12 and younger must wear a life jacket when underway on boats 20 feet or less and on canoes, kayaks, or paddleboards. From November 1 through April 30, a person shall wear a Coast Guard-approved PFD while underway or at anchor on boats less than 16 feet or any canoe, kayak, or paddleboard.

    HandbookAgency page

Rhode Island

Handbooks & guides

  • RI Handbook / RI-specific statutes & regulations PDF

    DEM’s certification page links “RI Handbook of Boating Laws & Responsibilities” (the href resolved to a kalkomey.com PDF, which is outside the .gov source rule). A live DEM PDF of Rhode Island specific statutes and regulations (riboat-laws.pdf) returned HTTP 200 and is recorded as the .gov handbook stand-in.

    HandbookAgency page

Registration & numbering

  • Registration (from RI-specific statutes PDF, as summarized on DEM-linked material)

    The DEM-linked statutes/regulations PDF (search-indexed and HTTP 200) states registration is required on all vessels except non-motorized rowboats less than 12 ft, canoes and kayaks without motors, a ship’s lifeboat, boats exclusively used for racing, houseboats, ferries, and vessels registered from another state in RI waters less than 90 days; outboard engines must also be registered (one-time). Two-year registration expires the last day of February, must be kept onboard, and only the current decal shall be displayed. All vessels over 14 ft must be titled.

    Handbook

Operator license & education

  • Boating Safety Certification

    Certification is required if you were born after January 1, 1986, or if you will operate a personal watercraft (jet ski) regardless of age and residency. Classroom courses must be at least 8 hours and state- and NASBLA-approved, with the RI Boating Safety Challenge Exam at the end. Independent study plus a free in-person challenge exam (70% to pass) is also offered. A USCG commercial vessel operator’s license exempts the certificate for boats other than PWC (keep a copy). Non-residents on RI waters less than 90 days need only meet home-state requirements except that all PWC operators need a RI boating safety certificate. A certificate is not required to register a boat, only to operate a Rhode Island registered boat (and as otherwise stated). Motors 10 hp or less do not require the certificate.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating under the influence

    DEM lists a “Boating Under the Influence Video” and “Operation Dry Water: Never BUI” among boating-safety videos. A numeric BAC and statutory BUI text were not in the fetched certification HTML. Treat detailed BUI elements as in the RI-specific statutes PDF rather than invented here.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Mandatory PFD wear for paddle craft

    All operators and passengers of canoes, kayaks, sailboards, kiteboards, paddleboards, and any other paddle craft must always wear a USCG-approved PFD while underway, regardless of age (violations may result in a $100 ticket). Paddleboards and surfboards inside the surf zone are not considered vessels by the USCG for this purpose; once out of the surf zone they must wear a PFD while underway. The statutes PDF (search-indexed) also states all vessels must have at least one wearable PFD for each person on board, including canoes, kayaks, kiteboards, sailboards, and paddleboards.

    HandbookAgency page

South Carolina

Handbooks & guides

  • 2023-24 SC Rules and Regulations (includes Mandatory Boater Education)

    Official SCDNR regulations PDF. Includes Act 74 mandatory boater education: boaters born after July 1, 2007, must pass an approved course before operating a boat, PWC, or specialty propcraft of 10 hp or more, with exemptions in S.C. Code 50-21-95, effective August 18, 2023. HTTP 200. The “South Carolina Digital Boating Handbook” linked from the education page returned 404 and is recorded as a gap.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Title and Register a Watercraft or Outboard Motor in SC

    SC law requires all motorized boats and watercraft, except exempted vessels and sailboats, and all outboard motors five horsepower and greater, to be titled. After purchase, a boat and/or motor may be used 60 days from the date of purchase with a temporary certificate number and copies of title or bill of sale even with expired or out-of-state decals. FAQ (same program): all watercraft must be registered and titled except documented vessels, windsurfers, and watercraft propelled only by human power; outboards under 5 hp are not required to be titled. Out-of-state visitors: 60 consecutive days with current home-state registration and valid bow decal.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • SCDNR Boater Education

    Effective 08/18/2023, boaters born after July 1, 2007, must pass an approved boater education course before operating a boat, personal watercraft, or specialty propcraft powered by a 10 hp motor or more. Exception: a person born after July 1, 2007, may rent such a craft with a valid rental safety certificate issued to the person’s last name. SCDNR accepts NASBLA-approved online courses; the provider issues the South Carolina boating safety certificate. SCDNR classroom course is free. Rental safety certificate is valid 30 days and only while operating a rental from a rental business. Duplicate cards: SCDNR/BoatED via ilostmycard.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Be safe, boat sober (SCDNR news)

    An SCDNR news article states that while consuming alcohol on the water is legal, South Carolina law prohibits anyone from operating a moving motorized vessel or vessel under sail on the waters of the state while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination thereof, and that violations carry fines, jail time, and boating suspensions.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Boating Safety — do not operate under the influence; lights

    SCDNR boating safety page instructs: don't operate the boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and make sure lights are in good working condition on the boat and trailer. The 2016 SCDNR “Be safe, boat sober” release (archived, same agency) states SC law prohibits operating a moving motorized vessel or vessel under sail while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination. Numeric BAC was not stated on the fetched safety page.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Night Navigation (SCDNR news)

    SCDNR’s night-navigation safety tip tells operators to make sure the vessel is equipped with the proper lights and that they are operating, to understand light placement, to use docking lights only for docking, and that any lights that interfere with navigational lights are illegal. The agency’s boating safety checklist also tells boaters to make sure navigation lights are working properly.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Boating Safety Tips — PFDs (SCDNR)

    All boats must have a US Coast Guard approved wearable type PFD for each person on board or being towed. Each PFD must be in good condition, readily available, and the proper size for the intended wearer. In addition, boats 16 feet in length or longer must carry a Type IV throwable device. In South Carolina, any person under twelve years of age must wear a US Coast Guard approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD when on board a class “A” (less than 16 ft. long) boat.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Life Jacket Awareness — regulations reminder

    All vessels must have onboard a wearable USCG-approved PFD for each person; PFDs must be the appropriate size, readily accessible, and in serviceable condition. Children under 12 must wear a USCG-approved PFD on a vessel less than 16 feet, proper size and fastened. Anyone operating, riding on, or being towed behind a PWC must wear an approved PFD; inflatables are prohibited on PWCs. No one may water ski or aquaplane unless wearing a USCG-approved PFD; inflatables prohibited for skiing/aquaplaning.

    HandbookAgency page

South Dakota

Handbooks & guides

  • South Dakota Boating Handbook (GFP, 2023 PDF)

    Official GFP Boating Handbook PDF at gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/BoatingHdbk2023.pdf returned HTTP 200. GFP registration and FAQ pages tell boaters to download this handbook. Covers registration/numbering, PFDs, and related equipment. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Licensing Your Boat (South Dakota GFP)

    Boats over 12 ft and motorboats of any length, including electric trolling motors, must be registered for public waters. Register, transfer, and replace stickers at the county treasurer in the county of residence (not where the boat is kept). One-year registration; fees by length and propulsion. All motorized boats and non-motorized boats over 18 ft must be licensed and numbered. Non-motorized boats over 12 ft need a validation sticker (numbering optional). Non-motorized 12 ft or less need neither. Display 3-inch block numbers (SD 123 AB) on both sides of the bow, contrast color, readable at 100 ft; validation stickers adjacent and in line. Carry the registration card whenever operated. Out-of-state registered vessels: 60 days; USCG-documented vessels under 60 consecutive days in a calendar year; marina berth contracts of 60+ consecutive days require SD registration. Apply for title and registration with DOR Form MV-607. FAQ: new owners have 45 days from purchase to complete licensing. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boating safety course (GFP safety reminders)

    South Dakota does not require a boating safety course or operator certificate to operate a recreational boat. GFP highly recommends a NASBLA/USCG-approved course and lists Boat-Ed, BoatUS Foundation, and Boater Exam South Dakota options. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BUI and navigation lights (GFP safety reminders / handbook)

    BUI: South Dakota law prohibits boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. GFP states the legal BAC limit for operating a vessel under the influence is .08. Have a designated driver. Lights: GFP lists required safety equipment including navigation lights. Night navigation lights described on the safety page: red/green sidelights, all-around white light (most common in South Dakota), white stern light, and masthead light on sailboats and required on powerboats (all-around white commonly used in lieu of masthead and stern light). PWC: operators and occupants must wear a USCG-approved PFD; illegal to operate a PWC without the engine-cutoff lanyard attached. Not legal advice.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets — South Dakota Boating Handbook and GFP safety

    Handbook: all boats less than 16 ft and all canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards must have one USCG-approved wearable PFD for each person; boats 16 ft or over other than canoes/kayaks/paddleboards must also have a throwable. Towing: a wearable for each person being towed unless that person is wearing one. If operated at greater than no-wake speed, each child under seven must wear a USCG-approved PFD unless within a cabin or below deck. Inflatable PFDs are not approved for towed watersports, PWC, or persons under 16. PWC: each person must wear a USCG-approved PFD (inflatables not approved). Devices must be in good condition, proper size, readily accessible, and USCG-approved. GFP safety page: all boats/vessels regardless of size need a properly sized life jacket for every person on board, including paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, and inflatable rafts. Not legal advice.

    Handbook

Tennessee

Handbooks & guides

  • TWRA Tennessee Boating Handbook PDF

    Official TWRA PDF "TN Boating Handbook, Laws and Regulations for Boating in Tennessee" at tn.gov (HTTP 200). TWRA also has a handbook HTML page (returned HTTP 500 when fetched 2026-09-01). Education handbook; not a substitute for Tennessee Code. Copyright line in PDF is Kalkomey 2025, hosted on TWRA.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Vessel registration; boats not titled

    TWRA: Tennessee law requires all mechanically powered vessels (including federally documented recreational vessels) and all sailboats principally used in Tennessee to be registered. Boats are not titled in Tennessee. Mechanical propulsion includes electric trolling motors; does not include boats powered only by oars or paddles. Must be registered before use on any public water in Tennessee. Out-of-state registered boats may use Tennessee waters unless Tennessee is the state of principal use (with a sailboat exception for states that do not number sailboats). Application via county clerk or dealer (yellow temporary valid 60 days); process via GoOutdoorsTennessee or TWRA regional offices. Sales-tax certification required for first-time registration to that owner.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • TWRA Boating Safety Education Certificate

    TWRA: any Tennessee resident born after January 1, 1989, must pass a Boating Safety Exam and carry the TWRA-issued Boating Safety Certification wallet card while operating any vessel in Tennessee. Required if operating a vessel with more than 8.5 horsepower (residents and, for visitors, a NASBLA-approved certificate). Not required if an adult 18 or older born before January 1, 1989 is onboard and able to take immediate control. Persons born on or before January 1, 1989 are not required to have the certification. Non-residents born after January 1, 1989 need a NASBLA-approved certificate. Minimum age to take the exam is 12. Under 12 may not operate a powered boat of more than 8.5 hp unless accompanied by an adult who can take immediate control (FAQ). TWRA-issued card is what Tennessee residents must show; NASBLA certificates accepted for non-residents.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BUI and navigation lights

    TWRA handbook: Tennessee law prohibits BUI—operating any vessel propelled by a motor or sail while under the influence of alcohol or any combination of alcohol, a controlled substance, or drugs. A person is presumed under the influence if blood alcohol concentration is 0.08% or greater. Handbook penalties: first offense at least 48 consecutive hours in jail/workhouse; if BAC 0.20% or more on first offense, minimum seven consecutive days; second offense at least 45 consecutive days; third at least 120 consecutive days; fourth or subsequent sentenced as a felon. May lose operating privileges for one to ten years. Navigation lights: required lights must be displayed between sunset and sunrise and during periods of restricted visibility. Power-driven vessels less than 65.6 feet: red and green sidelights and an all-round white light or masthead plus sternlight, with stated visibility distances.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    TWRA handbook: all vessels must have at least one USCG-approved wearable (Type I, II, III, or V) PFD for each person onboard. In addition, one USCG-approved throwable (Type IV) must be onboard and immediately available on vessels 16 feet or longer (except canoes and kayaks). Children 12 years of age and younger must wear a USCG-approved PFD at all times while on the open deck of a recreational vessel that is not anchored, moored, or aground. Each person on a PWC must wear a USCG-approved PFD. Inflatable PFDs are not approved for PWC use, whitewater, or persons younger than 16. PFDs must be good and serviceable and readily accessible. A USCG-approved PFD must be worn by each person onboard vessels operated within specifically marked areas below dams.

    Handbook

Texas

Handbooks & guides

  • Water Safety Act booklet (PWD)

    Official TPWD publication of Texas Parks and Wildlife Code Title 4, Chapter 31 (Water Safety Act), including numbering, equipment, and related water-safety statutes. HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Boat Registration and Titles – Frequently Asked Questions

    Vessels on Texas public water (including docked or moored) generally must have current numbering: all motorized vessels regardless of length (including sailboats with an auxiliary engine), all non-motorized vessels 14 feet or longer, and USCG documented vessels. Certificate of number must be in effect and the number properly displayed. Titling is required for all motorized vessels, non-motorized vessels 14 feet or longer, and most internal-combustion outboards. Exemptions include non-motorized canoes, kayaks, punts, rowboats, or rubber rafts (regardless of length) or other vessels under 14 feet when paddled, poled, oared, or windblown.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Texas boat title, registration, tax, and ID

    TPWD handles recreational boat title, registration, TX number, bill of sale, and transfer. Registration and titles FAQ, office locations, and online renewal are on the TPWD Boating hub. Water Safety Act numbering and exemptions are in Chapter 31.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Mandatory Boater Education

    Boater education is required for persons born on or after September 1, 1993, to operate a vessel powered by a motor of more than 15 horsepower or a windblown vessel over 14 feet. Successful completion of a TPWD-certified course and a valid photo ID are required. No person may operate a PWC or motorboat over 15 hp on public waters unless at least 13 and course-certified, or supervised onboard by a person at least 18 who can lawfully operate. A one-time 15-day deferral may be purchased. NASBLA-approved out-of-state courses are accepted.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Texas boater education certification

    Texas does not issue a traditional boating license. Anyone born on or after September 1, 1993 who operates a PWC, a motorboat with more than 15 horsepower, or a sailboat over 14 feet must complete a TPWD-certified boater education course. Persons subject to the law must carry picture ID and a TPWD boater certification card.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Texas BWI and navigation lights

    Water Safety Act §31.064: a vessel not at dock must exhibit at least one bright light, lantern, or flashlight from sunset to sunrise; when underway at night it must exhibit Coast Guard-prescribed lights for its class. TPWD Water Safety Act booklet and Outdoor Annual cover BWI as boating while intoxicated; do not operate a vessel while intoxicated. Party-boat study guide on TPWD.gov restates sunset-to-sunrise and restricted-visibility lighting.

    Handbook
  • Water Safety Violations — BWI and improper lights

    TPWD Game Warden water-safety violation table lists boating while intoxicated as Tex. Penal Code § 49.06 (also intoxication assault/manslaughter and BUI by a minor). Improper lights on a vessel is cited to Tex. Parks & Wild. Code §§ 31.064 and 31.073. PWC operation between sunset and sunrise is listed as a separate PWC violation under § 31.106.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life Jackets — Texas Life Jacket Laws

    On recreational vessels under 26 ft underway (including drifting or not at anchor), all children under 13 must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Adults must have a properly fitting life jacket that is easily accessible. TPWD points to Required Safety Equipment in the Outdoor Annual and the Water Safety Act PDF for vessel-type details. Inflatable PFDs are not approved for anyone under 16, PWC operators, or tow-sport participants.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Texas life jackets and required safety equipment

    Children under 13 in or on vessels under 26 feet must wear a USCG-approved wearable PFD while underway. Adults must have a properly fitting, easily accessible life jacket. Outdoor Annual required-equipment charts cover PFDs, throwables, fire extinguishers, sound devices, and lights by vessel class. Operating without required equipment is prohibited.

    HandbookAgency page

Utah

Handbooks & guides

  • Utah recreational boating handbook PDF not found

    wildlife.utah.gov 2025 boating handbook PDF returned HTTP 404. Official program pages are on recreation.utah.gov. A 2022 Boating Code and Rules PDF remains live but is statute/rule text, not a current rec handbook. handbook_url left blank (gap).

    HandbookAgency page
  • Utah's Boating Highlights PDF (2021) plus DOR HTML

    Live State Parks PDF https://stateparks.utah.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/13/2021/05/Boating-Highlights-21-Online.pdf HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01. Boating program moved to Division of Outdoor Recreation (recreation.utah.gov); Highlights is older (2021) and still hosted. Companion 2022 Boating Code PDF on recreation.utah.gov also 200. Use DOR HTML for current education/AIS/BAC.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • DMV motor/sail registration; AIS fee/decal separate

    DOR: all motorboats and sailboats must have current Utah registration/decals. If the boat has a motor (gas or electric) or is a sailboat, it must be registered and numbered. Visitors less than 60 days in a calendar year with current home-state registration do not need Utah registration. Processed by Utah State Tax Commission DMV. Title required if 1985 or newer; pre-1985 with motor more than 25 hp also titled. Certificate onboard. Motorized AIS program enrollment/decal via DWR ($20 resident / $25 nonresident as stated on DWR 2026 news) separate from DMV registration. Motorboats and PWC generally must carry liability insurance (exemptions for engines less than 50 hp and airboats).

    HandbookAgency page
  • Utah motorboat and sailboat registration

    All motorboats and sailboats must be registered with current registration and AIS decals. Canoes, kayaks, and other vessels not propelled by a motor or sail are exempt. Visitors under 60 days in a calendar year with home-state registration need not register in Utah but must take the mussel-aware course and buy a non-resident AIS decal. Registrations processed by Utah DMV, renewed annually.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Youth PWC course 12–17; AIS mussel-aware course for all

    Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation: mandatory youth certification course for operating PWC ages 12–17; Highlights brochure: ages 12–15 also under direct supervision of a responsible adult at least 18; a person under 18 who has not met those requirements may not operate a PWC unless accompanied by a responsible adult. Adult education recommended, not a statewide adult operator license. Annual Utah Mussel Aware Boater Course required for all boaters (motorized and non-motorized, resident and nonresident).

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BUI 0.05 BAC (motorboat) and navigation lights

    DOR motorized getting-started page: Utah DUI laws apply to the operator of a motorboat; legal BAC is 0.05% (less than 0.05 grams alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood). Operation Dry Water page: operating any motorized vehicle or vessel at 0.05% or higher is against the law. Alcohol allowed on boats; illegal for a person under the influence to operate a motorboat. Implied consent to field sobriety tests; boat/trailer/tow vehicle may be impounded. Lights: DOR getting-started list includes navigation lights used between sunset and sunrise. 2021 Highlights: all boats display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise; PWC may not be operated between sunset and sunrise even if equipped with lights.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    DOR life-jackets page: at least one properly sized, serviceable, USCG-approved life jacket for each person aboard, readily accessible (not original packaging). Children 12 and under must wear life jackets at all times when aboard a vessel. Boats 16 ft and longer (except canoes and kayaks) must carry a throwable Type IV, immediately available. Wear required for towing activities, anyone on a PWC, and river sections not designated as flatwater. On rivers, every person on any vessel including inner tubes must wear a properly sized approved life jacket (loosen/remove only for persons 13+ on designated flatwater river sections).

    HandbookAgency page
  • Utah life jackets (Outdoor Recreation FAQ)

    Properly sized, serviceable USCG-approved life jacket for everyone onboard, readily accessible. Youth under 13 must wear a life jacket when on the water. Everyone must wear a life jacket on river sections not designated as flatwater, while operating a PWC, or in towed sports. Causey Reservoir requires everyone on the water to wear a life jacket.

    HandbookAgency page

Vermont

Handbooks & guides

Registration & numbering

  • Motorboat registration (23 V.S.A. § 3305)

    An individual shall not operate a motorboat on the public waters of this State unless the motorboat has a valid marine document issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection or successor, or is registered in accordance with this chapter. The owner files an application with the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles with class-based annual or biennial fees; the identification number must be painted or attached to each side of the bow; the pocket-size registration certificate must be available for inspection whenever the motorboat is in operation. A motorboat of less than 10 horsepower used as a tender to a registered motorboat is deemed registered at no additional cost and uses the same number with a “1” suffix. DMV also publishes first-time registration document lists (MCO, title, bills of sale) and sales-tax rules.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Marine Unit — boating safety education

    Boating safety education is required for any motorboat operator (12 years of age or older) born after January 1, 1974. Boat Vermont 8-hour classroom courses are sponsored by listed entities; an internet course is available for Vermont residents unable to attend classroom. Nonresidents: a state’s NASBLA-approved course as well as any NASBLA-approved boating safety course is accepted. 23 V.S.A. § 3305b (fetched) states an individual born after January 1, 1974 shall not operate a motorboat on the public waters of this State without first obtaining a certificate of boating education, and shall possess it as provided in that section; courses must provide a minimum of eight hours of instruction.

    Handbook

Operation rules

  • Boating under the influence (23 V.S.A. § 3323)

    A person shall not operate, attempt to operate, or be in actual physical control of a vessel on the waters of this State while there is 0.08 percent or more by weight of alcohol in his or her blood as shown by breath or blood analysis; or while under the influence of alcohol; or while under the influence of any other drug or combined alcohol and drug to a degree that renders the person incapable of operating safely.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Lights (23 V.S.A. § 3306)

    Every vessel shall carry and show specified lights, in the intensity prescribed under 33 C.F.R. § 83.22, when underway between sunset and sunrise and during other periods of restricted visibility. Unpowered sailing vessels shall exhibit sidelights and a sternlight (with listed mast-top options and length exceptions); sailing vessels under 7 meters shall if practicable exhibit those lights or have onboard an all-round white light to prevent collision; vessels under oars or paddles may exhibit sailing lights or have an all-round white light. Motorboats shall exhibit a forward masthead light, a second masthead light if 50 meters or more, sidelights, and a sternlight. Any light or combination approved by the U.S. Coast Guard for inland waters is legal on Vermont waters. Motorboats on USCG navigable waters must have lights and other safety equipment as required by Coast Guard rules.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Lights and equipment — PFDs (23 V.S.A. § 3306)

    Each vessel, except sailboards, shall, consistent with federal regulations, carry for each individual aboard at least one wearable USCG-approved PFD that is in good and serviceable condition and capable of being used in accordance with the approval label. An individual under 12 aboard a vessel, while under way and on an open deck, shall wear a properly secured wearable USCG-approved PFD. An individual under 16 aboard a sailboard shall wear a properly secured wearable USCG-approved PFD. USCG-inspected commercial vessels are exempt from this PFD subsection.

    HandbookAgency page

Virginia

Handbooks & guides

  • Virginia Boater’s Guide (required equipment)

    DWR publishes an online Boater’s Guide. The Required Equipment chapter (life jackets, fire extinguishers, ECOS, VDS, navigation lights) was fetched and is used as the official handbook URL. No single statewide PDF handbook was required given the live HTML guide.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Watercraft Registration, Titling, and Sales Tax Requirements

    DWR administers recreational boat titling and registration. A Certificate of Title and Certificate of Number are required for all watercraft propelled by machinery (gasoline, diesel, electric). Sail-powered vessels (no motor) greater than 18 feet must be titled only. Boats used only on private waters do not require registration or titling. The three-year registration card must be carried aboard while in use. An owner bringing a watercraft from another state may operate up to 90 consecutive days on that state’s current registration. Used watercraft with current Virginia registration may be operated 30 days with a dated bill of sale and the former owner’s card. Decals (month/year of expiration) must be displayed within 6 inches of the number; numbers on each side of the forward half in block letters at least 3 inches, contrasting, with a space or hyphen separating VA and the letter suffix.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Do I Need to Take A Boating Safety Course?

    All PWC operators age 14 and older and all operators (regardless of age) of motorboats with a 10 hp or greater engine need a boating safety course. As of 2016, those operators must have a NASBLA-approved course completion card on board. No person under 14 may operate a PWC; 14- and 15-year-olds must show classroom or online course completion (the challenge exam does not meet the age-restriction law). Exemptions include holding/having held a USCG Master/Captain/Mate license; Virginia registered commercial fishermen; certain Navy/Armed Forces/Coast Guard/Merchant Marine qualifications; and operating a boat registered in another state if the operator meets that state’s education requirements.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boat Safe Without the Influence of Drugs and Alcohol

    The presumptive level for being under the influence of alcohol is 0.08 BAC. No person may operate a watercraft under the influence of alcohol, narcotic drugs, or other self-administered intoxicants or drugs. Virginia has zero tolerance for anyone under 21: it is unlawful for any person under 21 to operate a boat after consuming alcohol. Conviction of OUI can mean as much as one year in jail and/or a $2,500 fine, loss of the privilege of operating a watercraft for 12 months, and/or mandatory VASAP; convictions are reported to DMV.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Navigation lights

    Recreational boats, while underway, must display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during periods of restricted visibility. No other lights shall be exhibited that could impair required running lights or the visibility of approaching vessels. Power-driven vessels less than 12 meters may use listed figure arrangements; vessels 12 to under 20 meters have higher masthead-light placement rules. Unpowered vessels under oars and sailboats less than 7 meters (23 feet) may display sailing lights or have ready an electric torch or lighted lantern shining a white light exhibited in time to prevent collision. An anchor light is a 360-degree white light visible for 2 miles.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets

    There must be one wearable USCG-approved life jacket for each person on the boat, including paddlecraft (canoes, kayaks, SUPs). Each jacket must be in good and serviceable condition, proper fit, worn according to the label, and readily accessible if not worn. Boats 16 feet or greater must also have a throwable device immediately available (not applicable to PWCs). PWC operators, riders, and anyone towed must wear a USCG-approved wearable life jacket suitable for the activity; inflatable life jackets are prohibited on PWCs. Inflatable life jackets are only approved for persons age 16 or older. Federal child-under-13 wear is described as enforced by the Coast Guard on federal waters, which DWR says includes most waters in Virginia. SUPs outside a designated swim zone or beyond the surf zone are vessels requiring life jackets and a sound-producing device.

    Handbook

Washington

Handbooks & guides

  • Washington recreational boating laws (Parks HTML)

    Parks directs boaters to the Adventures in Boating Washington Handbook. A current Parks-hosted PDF of that titled handbook was not confirmed (vendor study guides are not used). Official .gov HTML handbook: Recreational Boating Laws & Regulations, plus equipment and education pages and the Required Equipment Checklist PDF.

    Handbook

Registration & numbering

  • Boat Registration

    To navigate, operate, employ, or moor a vessel in Washington you must have a Washington title, registration card, and registration decals; the registration card must be onboard. Titling is through the Department of Licensing. Exemptions: canoe, kayak, or a vessel not propelled by a motor or sail; a vessel less than 16 feet with a motor of 10 hp or less used on non-federal waters only. Visitors may recreate up to 60 days with another-state registration or current USCG documentation, then may obtain a 60-day permit (renewable once). Documented vessels still need WA registration but need not display the registration number. Motor vessels other than a Jet Ski must display a carbon monoxide warning sticker.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Register a boat (Washington DOL)

    To title and register, complete a Vessel Title Application and submit it with ownership documents, proof of sales tax, and fees at a vehicle and boat licensing office or by mail. Residents have 15 days to register a boat bought in another state and 60 days after moving to Washington. Human-powered boats without motor or sail are exempt; also exempt are boats less than 16 feet with a motor of 10 hp or less used only on non-federal waters, among other listed exemptions. Out-of-state registered boats are exempt for the first 60 days on Washington waters; on or before the 61st day a nonresident boat temporary license plate is required if still using Washington waters.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Boater Education Card

    Required to carry a Washington State Boater Education Card if you operate a vessel with a 15-horsepower or greater motor, were born after Jan. 1, 1955, and are 12 or older. The card is valid for life. Course completion certificate is a temporary card for 60 days; then the permanent $10 card must be carried. Exemptions include born before Jan. 1, 1955; commercial fishing with a valid commercial license; valid USCG Marine Operator License; rental with vendor checklist and temporary card; government vessels exempt from state registration; permitted racing. 60-day exemptions for valid other-state cards (confirm with Parks) and recent purchase with bill of sale. Visitors from another state/country boating less than 60 days do not need the WA card.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating Equipment — navigation lights; BUI not stated on fetched Parks pages

    Parks required-equipment page: a white navigation light during low visibility; motorized vessels must carry/use navigation lights. The required-equipment checklist states vessels must display proper navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during restricted visibility such as fog or heavy rain. A numeric BUI/BAC rule was not found on the Parks pages fetched for this digest (gap for BUI text on parks.wa.gov).

    HandbookAgency page
  • Recreational Boating Laws — alcohol & drugs (Washington State Parks)

    Washington State Parks states that operating a boat under the influence (BUI) is a gross misdemeanor and can result in a fine up to $5,000 and up to a year in jail. The legal limit for operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol is .08; the legal limit for marijuana is 5.0 nanograms. The law applies to all boats, motorized and non-motorized, including kayaks, canoes and rafts. The same hub tells boaters to know the laws covered in the Adventures in Boating Washington Handbook.

    Handbook

Safety equipment

  • Boating Equipment

    Federal and Washington law require on every boat including kayaks, canoes, and SUPs: USCG-approved life jackets of the right size and type for everyone onboard; a sounding device; a white navigation light during low visibility (fog, heavy rain, dawn or dusk); nighttime visual distress signal on federal waterways. Motorized vessels also require registration onboard, numbers/decals, Boater Education Card for 15+ hp, throwable flotation, Type B-1 fire extinguisher, visual distress signals, navigation lights, and a CO warning sticker. Parks’ required-equipment checklist (PDF linked from this program) states children 12 and younger must wear USCG-approved life jackets on boats shorter than 19 feet when underway or on an open deck/cockpit, and PWC occupants must wear a life jacket at all times.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Wear a Life Jacket (Washington State Parks)

    All vessels (including canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards) must carry at least one properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board. Children 12 years old and younger must wear a USCG-approved life jacket at all times when underway in a vessel less than 19 feet in length, unless in a fully enclosed area. Each person on a PWC and anyone being towed behind a boat must wear a USCG-approved life jacket designed for that activity. A USCG-approved throwable flotation device must be on board vessels 16 feet or longer; canoes and kayaks are exempt from the throwable requirement.

    HandbookAgency page

West Virginia

Handbooks & guides

  • A Synopsis of West Virginia Boating Rules and Laws

    WVDNR’s boating page links “View the current West Virginia Boating Rules and Laws.” The PDF at wvdnr.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/WV-Boating-Rules-and-Laws-Final.pdf returned HTTP 200 on 2026-09-01 (issued under Chapter Twenty of the Code of West Virginia; synopsis notes effective April 21, 2006).

    HandbookAgency page

Registration & numbering

  • Motorboat numbering / DMV title

    The 2021 WVDNR synopsis states all motorboats operating on the waters of this State must be numbered in accordance with Chapter 20 and 33 C.F.R. 173. The historic DMV motorboats SharePoint URL (transportation.wv.gov/DMV/Vehicle-Services/Pages/Motorboats.aspx) redirected to dmv.wv.gov and returned HTTP 404 on 2026-09-01, so live DMV fee/title HTML was not recaptured. Search-indexed DMV text (not treated as a fetched row for fees) previously described titling of all motorboats since July 1, 1989 and 3-year registrations; those fee figures are omitted because the live page 404’d.

    Handbook

Operator license & education

  • Get Your WV Boater Education Card

    Anyone born on or after December 31, 1986 must successfully complete a boating safety education course before operating a motorboat or personal watercraft on the waters of this state (W.Va. Code 20-7-12b). The certificate must come from USCG Auxiliary, US Power Squadron, WVDNR, a person certified to teach the WVDNR course, or a person authorized to teach the NASBLA-prescribed course in this or any other state.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • Boating under the influence (Operation Dry Water)

    WVDNR Police state operating a boat with a BAC of 0.08 or higher is illegal under both state and federal law. BUI penalties in West Virginia may include fines, jail time, boat impoundment, and the loss of boating or driving privileges.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Navigation lights

    The fetched WVDNR boating and education HTML pages tell boaters to check safety equipment including navigation lights but do not reprint light configurations. Detailed lighting is treated as in the 2021 Rules and Laws synopsis PDF rather than invented here.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Personal flotation devices

    West Virginia law requires a PFD that is in good condition, properly sized, and readily available for each person on board. Any child under the age of 13, including infants, must wear a PFD while the vessel is underway. Vessels 16 feet and over must have a throwable Type IV PFD ring or cushion in addition to wearable PFDs. A WVDNR patrol release also states children under 13 must wear a life jacket while underway unless below deck or in an enclosed cabin.

    HandbookAgency page

Wisconsin

Handbooks & guides

  • Boating in Wisconsin (DNR boat hub)

    Official Wisconsin DNR boating hub that links registration, boat regulations (view/download/print), and safety. A standalone current boating-regulations PDF on dnr.wisconsin.gov was not independently verified (registration packets include a copy of state boating regulations). HTML hub used instead of third-party Kalkomey PDFs.

    Official source

Registration & numbering

  • Boat registration (Wisconsin DNR)

    Apply online via GoWILD or mail Form 9400-193. New boats never registered require the original Manufacturer's Statement of Origin; previously titled Wisconsin boats 16 feet or greater require the original signed Certificate of Title. Online applicants can print a 60-day temporary operating receipt; mail-in applicants must wait for the certificate and decals unless a DNR authorized dealer submitted the application. For boats 16 feet or longer, title/MSO supporting documents must still be mailed; the online transaction stays pending until they arrive.

    Official source
  • General information on boat registration and titling

    Registration required for all motorized vessels used on waters of the state (including electric trolling motors) and sailboats greater than 12 feet. Not required: nonmotorized boats that are not sailboats; nonmotorized sailboats 12 feet or less; boats registered in another state using Wisconsin waters less than 60 consecutive days; and listed governmental/military/lifeboat/race exceptions. Registration term is 3 years (April 1 through March 31 of the third year). Title required for boats 16 feet or greater. Certificate of number card must be carried; two expiration decals issued.

    Official source
  • Wisconsin boat registration and title

    No person may operate a boat unless it has a certificate of number, registration certificate, expiration decals, and (motorized boats or sailboats 16 feet or greater) a Wisconsin title or USCG documentation. Carry the combined certificate of number/registration card; display numbers and expiration decals. Temporary operating receipts are valid 60 days. Apply with form 9400-193.

    Official source

Operator license & education

  • Safety Education — Boating course requirements

    Wisconsin boating safety certification or out-of-state equivalent is required for operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1989. Under 10 may not operate a motorboat. Ages 10–11 may operate a motorboat only if accompanied by a parent/guardian/designated adult 18+ who holds a valid certificate or was born before Jan. 1, 1989. Ages 12–15 may operate if so accompanied OR they have completed a DNR-accepted course. Age 16+ born on or after Jan. 1, 1989, may operate if they completed an accepted course OR are accompanied by a person 18+ who holds a valid certificate or was born before Jan. 1, 1989. No one under 12 may operate a PWC; children at least 12 may operate a PWC only with a DNR (or other-state) boating safety certificate—adult supervision is not a substitute. Operators must obtain a DNR Customer ID to enroll.

    Official source

Operation rules

  • Boating Safety Tips — impaired operation and navigation lights

    DNR safety-tips page and 2024 DNR news (same agency) state operating a boat while impaired by alcohol and other drugs is illegal, and that all motorboats are required to have red/green navigation lights and a white all-around light when operating after sunset. Wear-a-life-jacket news: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/newsroom/release/98236 also states those lighting rules. This row’s primary fetched URL is the DNR boating safety tips page.

    Official source
  • Intoxicated boating — Operation Dry Water (Wisconsin DNR)

    The DNR states that operating a vessel while impaired is illegal on all bodies of water. In Wisconsin, it is illegal to operate a vessel with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. The page describes Operation Dry Water as a year-round BUI awareness and enforcement campaign coordinated nationally by NASBLA.

    Official source
  • Navigation lights after sunset (Wisconsin DNR news)

    A DNR news release on holiday boating safety states that all motorboats are required to have red/green navigation lights and white all-around lights when operating after sunset, and it tells boaters to check navigation lights before the sun goes down. The same release restates that the law requires one wearable and correctly sized life jacket be readily available for each person aboard.

    Official source

Safety equipment

  • Life Jackets

    All vessels (including canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards) must have at least one USCG-approved wearable life jacket for each person onboard. Vessels 16 feet or more must have one USCG-approved throwable immediately accessible. Every person on a PWC must wear a USCG-approved life jacket. Sailboards and windsurfers are exempt from the life-jacket requirement but are encouraged to wear one. Federal law requires children under 13 to wear a USCG-approved life jacket while underway in an open vessel on federally controlled waters.

    Official source

Wyoming

Handbooks & guides

Registration & numbering

  • Motorized watercraft Certificate of Number; AIS decal

    WGFD: all boats with any size motor (gas or electric) must be registered. Non-motorized watercraft not required to register. Certificate of Number; can register for one year or as stated in the booklet. All watercraft using Wyoming waters require an Aquatic Invasive Species decal except non-motorized inflatable watercraft 10 ft or less. Owner registers at Game and Fish offices; renewals online.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Wyoming motorboat certificate of number

    All motorboats powered by propulsion machinery of any type (including electric trolling motors) operated on Wyoming waters must be registered. Registration requires payment of fees, proof sales/use tax paid, and proof of certificate of title. One-year or three-year registration.

    HandbookAgency page

Operator license & education

  • Minimum operator age 16; education not required

    WGFD FAQ / 2023 Watercraft regulations: no person shall operate or be in actual physical control of a motorboat required to be numbered unless at least 16 years of age or accompanied by an adult (adult physically aboard and responsible). Includes PWC. WGFD: possessing a boating safety certificate card is required by some states but not in Wyoming. Free/paid NASBLA courses available. Not a statewide operator license.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Wyoming motorboat operator age (WGFD 2026 watercraft brochure)

    No person shall operate or be in actual physical control of a motorboat required to be numbered unless at least 16 years of age or accompanied by an adult. Accompanied by an adult means an adult 18 or older is physically in or aboard and responsible for operation. Includes PWC.

    HandbookAgency page

Operation rules

  • BUI 0.08 (motorboat) and navigation lights

    2023 Watercraft PDF: illegal to operate or be in actual physical control while under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or combination, or with alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more if the watercraft is a motorboat. Lights: every watercraft underway from sunset to sunrise shall carry and exhibit required lights; no other lights that may be mistaken for navigation lights. Motorized and sailboats: red/green combined lantern forward and a white light aft visible 360 degrees when underway (classes A/B detail in the booklet). Hand-powered: lighting ready at hand to avoid collision.

    Handbook
  • Wyoming BUI (2026 brochure / W.S. 41-13)

    No person shall operate or be in actual physical control of a watercraft if under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or a combination to a degree which renders the person incapable of safely operating, or if the person has alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more if the watercraft is a motorboat.

    HandbookAgency page

Safety equipment

  • Life jackets / PFDs

    2023 Watercraft PDF: watercraft (including paddleboards) shall have USCG-approved wearable PFDs of suitable size for each person. Watercraft 16 ft and over: one throwable in addition to wearables (whitewater Class II+ exemption if a safety throw rope is carried). All persons aboard PWC and all persons being towed shall wear a USCG-approved wearable. Children 12 or younger must wear a USCG-approved wearable while the watercraft is underway unless riding in an enclosed cabin. PFDs readily accessible, serviceable, not waterlogged/torn, hardware intact. Water sport toys exempt unless towed or a motor is attached.

    HandbookAgency page
  • Wyoming life jackets (2026 brochure)

    No person shall operate a watercraft underway with any child aboard 12 years old or younger unless each child is wearing a USCG-approved wearable PFD or is riding in an enclosed cabin. Additional wearable/throwable carriage rules are in Chapter 22 of the same brochure.

    HandbookAgency page

Spec sheet labels like LOA, beam, and draft are defined on the boating terms glossary.

Federal baseline from U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety; state courses via NASBLA. Census taxonomy: data/census/CLASSIFICATION.md. Back to builders.