Boating in the U.S.: What Safety Equipment You're Legally Required to Carry

Whether you're paddling a canoe or cruising the coastline in a powerboat, recreational boating in the U.S. means following specific safety equipment regulations set by the U.S. Coast Guard. These federal requirements are in place to protect you and your passengers—and are legally enforceable. Here's a clear guide to what you need to carry on board based on your vessel type and length. 

What Are Carriage Requirements? 

Every recreational vessel must carry safety equipment that is U.S. Coast Guard-approved, in good, serviceable condition, and readily accessible. The type and amount of gear you need depends on the length and type of your boat and where you operate. 

Note: These are federal minimum requirements. Your state may have additional rules—always check local regulations. 

PFDs and Life Jackets: One Wearable Per Person 

Every person on board must have a wearable Personal Flotation Device (PFD) that is: 

• U.S. Coast Guard–approved (check the label) 
• The right size for the wearer 
• In good condition (no rips, mildew, or broken buckles) 

If your boat is 16 feet or longer, you must also carry one throwable device like a cushion or ring buoy. 

Child Life Jacket Law 

Children under 13 years old must wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket when underway on a recreational vessel unless below deck or in an enclosed cabin. 

SHOP KIDS' FLOTATION

Inflatable Life Jackets 

Inflatable PFDs are approved only for adults age 16+ and must be fully functional with: 

• An intact CO2 cylinder 
• Properly armed inflator (status indicators must be green) 

They must be worn to meet carriage requirements if labelled "approved only when worn." 

EXPLORE INFLATABLE PFDS

Visual Distress Signals (VDS) 

A Visual Distress Signal (VDS) is a U.S. Coast Guard–approved device used to alert others that you are in need of emergency assistance on the water. It is required when boating on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas, and connected waterways more than two nautical miles wide. However, boats under 16 feet, manually propelled boats, and open sailboats <26 feet without motors—only need night signals if operating after dark. 

Pyrotechnic Devices (Day/Night or Day-Only Use) 

• Red Handheld Flares (day/night) 
• Red Aerial Parachute Flares (day/night) 
• Red Meteor Flares (day/night) 
• Orange Smoke Flares – Handheld or Floating (day only) 

Note: If required, you must carry at least three day-use and three night-use signals or three combination signals. Devices must be unexpired and readily accessible. 

Non-Pyrotechnic Devices 

• Electric Distress Light (night only) – flashes SOS automatically 
• Orange Distress Flag (day only) – 3 x 3 ft with black square over circle 

Store all VDS in a dry, labelled, and accessible container. 

Fire Extinguishers 

Required on boats where a fire hazard could exist. For example, an enclosed engine compartment, a permanently installed fuel tank or storage of combustible materials in closed areas. The fire extinguisher must be U.S. Coast Guard–approved (Type B-I or B-II), easily accessible and mounted, and regularly inspected. 

The number of fire extinguishers required depends on boat size and whether a fixed suppression system is installed. Find more details here.  

Sound-Producing Devices 

Required for signaling in reduced visibility or when meeting/crossing/anchoring: 

• Whistle or horn required for boats 12 meters (39.4 ft) and over 
• Bell also required for boats over 20 meters (65.6 ft) 

Navigation Lights 

Required from sunset to sunrise or in poor visibility. 

Powerboats: masthead light, sidelights, stern light 

Sailboats: red/green sidelights and white stern light (unless also using motor—then follow powerboat rules) 

Boats under 7 meters (23 ft): may use an all-around white light if not practicable to mount standard lighting 

Pollution Prevention 

Boats 26 feet and longer must display an oil discharge placard (5" x 8") and a garbage discharge placard. All boats must not discharge oil or trash and follow regulations for proper disposal. Find more information here.  

Ventilation & Flame Arrestors 

If your boat uses gasoline, natural and powered ventilation systems and backfire flame control (flame arrestors on carburetors) are required.  

Final Thoughts 

The minimum is just that—a minimum. If you’re venturing offshore, into remote areas, or anywhere help might take a while to reach you, bringing extra gear is more than just a good idea—it could make all the difference. Plan ahead, pack smart, and make safety part of the adventure.  

For a complete breakdown and downloadable checklist, visit uscgboating.org.