Vessel details matter
Length, propulsion, waters, operation and state rules affect required equipment.
Decision value
Use evidence before action
Condition matters
Required gear must be present, accessible, serviceable and appropriate—not merely listed.
Brief the people aboard
Passengers should know life-jacket locations, emergency procedures and how to call for help.
Browser-local tool
Review each item
0 of 6 complete
- Use current Coast Guard and state sources for the exact vessel, waters and operation.
- Confirm approval, condition, accessibility and correct sizing for every person and activity.
- Requirements depend on vessel and waters; inspect service dates and function where applicable.
- Use vessel/manufacturer procedures and current requirements; stop for leaks, fumes or damaged systems.
- Carry current charts or suitable navigation tools and an appropriate means to call for help.
- Share the route, return plan, emergency equipment and responsible shore contact.
Privacy: checklist status and dates stay in this browser's local storage. This page sends no planner data and uses no external script.
Use safely
Verify what changes
- Confirm the exact jurisdiction, date, property, product or operation.
- Use the linked primary source and current official records.
- Keep a written record of what was verified and when.
- Escalate decisions outside this page's stated scope.
Evidence boundary
Unknown means unknown
This tool does not convert a general source into a fact about your exact situation. Availability, credentials, prices, local rules and outcomes remain unknown until verified.
Important: the page is an organizer and educational aid. It does not replace current law, official instructions, manufacturer directions, inspections or qualified professional advice.
Agentic guidance
Use a bounded evidence path
Agentic explains the verification sequence used by this page. It does not make the underlying regulated, safety or professional decision.
- Confirm the exact situation, location and current date.
- Open the linked primary source and verify what applies.
- Record unknown details instead of filling them with assumptions.
- Use a qualified professional or authority for decisions outside this page's scope.
FAQ
Scope questions
Does this checklist certify compliance?
No. It is an organizer; current federal/state rules and any required inspection control.
Does every boat need the same equipment?
No. Vessel size, propulsion, waters, operation and jurisdiction matter.
Is a life jacket enough if it is stored aboard?
It must meet current requirements, be in serviceable condition and be accessible; activity-specific wear rules may apply.
Primary sources checked 2026-08-27
Verify with current sources
- U.S. Coast Guard federal requirements guide
- U.S. Coast Guard life-jacket guidance
- U.S. Coast Guard boating FAQ
Source links establish general guidance only. Re-check their current text for the exact decision.
Need a situation-specific next step?
Use the current contact route to verify scope, credentials, availability and price. This page does not claim them.
Request review for an eligible service match. Leads are routed under the current DN service rules; availability and results are not guaranteed.