Quick Reference — Equipment by Vessel Length
The USCG exam frequently tests which specific equipment is required at specific vessel lengths. These are the minimum federal requirements — state and local rules may be stricter.
| Equipment | Under 16 ft | 16–26 ft | 26–40 ft | 40–65 ft |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wearable PFD | 1 per person | 1 per person | 1 per person | 1 per person |
| Type IV Throwable | Not required | 1 required | 1 required | 1 required |
| Fire Extinguisher | 1 B-I (if applicable) | 1 B-I | 2 B-I or 1 B-II | 3 B-I or 2 B-II |
| VDS (coastal/GL) | Exempt (daylight) | Required | Required | Required |
| Sound Device | Any efficient signal | Any efficient signal | Power whistle/horn | Power whistle/horn |
| Bell | Not required | Not required | Not required | Required (≥ 65.6 ft) |
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) — Types I–V
The USCG exam tests PFD type distinctions, carriage rules by vessel size, and UPV-specific requirements. Know each type's buoyancy, intended use, and when it counts toward carriage requirements.
Buoyancy
≥ 22 lbs (adult)
Intended Use
Offshore, rough or remote water
Turns Face-Up
Yes (most wearers)
Required on UPVs (ocean/coastal/Great Lakes routes). Best for open ocean where rescue may be delayed. Turns most unconscious wearers face-up.
Buoyancy
≥ 15.5 lbs (adult)
Intended Use
Calm inland water, quick rescue likely
Turns Face-Up
Not guaranteed
May not turn an unconscious wearer face-up in rough water. Acceptable for recreational vessels and UPVs on inland routes.
Buoyancy
≥ 15.5 lbs (adult)
Intended Use
Calm water, conscious wearer
Turns Face-Up
Not guaranteed
Designed for comfort during water sports. Will not turn unconscious wearer face-up. Acceptable for recreational vessels and inland UPVs.
Buoyancy
≥ 16.5 lbs (ring buoy) / ≥ 18 lbs (cushion)
Intended Use
Supplement — not wearable
Turns Face-Up
Not guaranteed
Required in addition to wearable PFDs on vessels 16 ft and over. Includes ring buoys and buoyant cushions. Must be immediately accessible.
Buoyancy
Varies by label
Intended Use
Activity-specific: kayaking, windsurfing, commercial
Turns Face-Up
Not guaranteed
Counts toward carriage only if worn continuously OR label specifies the activity. Inflatable Type V must be worn. Read the label — it governs use.
Recreational Vessel Carriage Rules
- ▸Under 16 ft: 1 wearable (Type I/II/III/V) per person — no throwable required
- ▸16 ft and over: 1 wearable per person + 1 Type IV throwable
- ▸Children under 13: Must wear a Type I, II, or III while underway, unless below decks or in an enclosed cabin
- ▸PFDs must be in good, serviceable condition and the correct size
- ▸Inflatable PFDs not approved for children under 16
UPV-Specific PFD Requirements
- ▸Ocean/coastal/Great Lakes routes: Type I only for each passenger
- ▸Inland routes: Type I, II, or III acceptable
- ▸Type IV throwable required in addition to wearable PFDs
- ▸PFDs must be readily accessible — not locked in storage
- ▸Crew PFDs: same requirements as passengers on UPVs
Visual Distress Signals (VDS)
VDS requirements vary by vessel size, waters navigated, and time of day. Pyrotechnic VDS have expiration dates — the exam tests this and enforcement officers check it.
Coastal waters, Great Lakes, territorial seas (≥ 16 ft)
Day Signals
Day signals (orange smoke or orange flag) OR combination signals
Night Signals
Night signals (red flares or SOS electric light) OR combination signals
Combination signals (e.g., aerial flares) satisfy both day and night requirements.
Inland waters only (open sailing vessel < 26 ft, daylight only)
Day Signals
Exempt from VDS requirement during daylight
Night Signals
Night signals required if operating after sunset
Check local regulations — some inland waterways have additional requirements.
Non-motorized vessel < 16 ft (daylight only)
Day Signals
Exempt
Night Signals
Night signals required if operating after sunset
Canoes, kayaks, paddleboards under 16 ft are exempt from daytime VDS on most waters.
Organized events (races, parades)
Day Signals
May be exempt under organized event exemption
Night Signals
Not exempt for night operations
Event must be formally organized with safety oversight for exemption to apply.
Types of Approved VDS
- ▸Day only: Orange smoke canister, orange distress flag (3×3 ft, black square and ball on orange background)
- ▸Night only: Electric SOS light (flashing SOS ••• — ••• in Morse)
- ▸Combination (day & night): Aerial pyrotechnic flares, handheld red flares, parachute flares
- ▸Minimum of 3 combination signals satisfies both day and night requirements
Critical Exam Points — VDS
- !Pyrotechnic VDS expire 42 months from manufacture date — expired signals do NOT count
- !An orange distress flag is valid for day only and never expires
- !An SOS electric light is valid for night only and does not expire
- !Flares used in practice or as actual signals must be replaced — they count only if unexpended
- !VDS requirements apply to coastal waters, Great Lakes, territorial seas — not all inland waters
Fire Extinguishers — Type B Requirements
The USCG requires Type B fire extinguishers because the primary fire hazard on boats is flammable liquid (gasoline, diesel). Type B extinguishers control fires involving flammable liquids. Size ratings (B-I, B-II) indicate extinguishing capacity.
| Vessel Length | No Fixed System | With Fixed System |
|---|---|---|
| Under 26 ft (7.9 m) | 1 × B-I | None required (0) |
| 26–40 ft (7.9–12.2 m) | 2 × B-I or 1 × B-II | 1 × B-I |
| 40–65 ft (12.2–19.8 m) | 3 × B-I, or 2 × B-II, or 1 × B-I + 1 × B-II | 2 × B-I or 1 × B-II |
B-I vs. B-II Extinguisher Sizes
- ▸B-I: Minimum 2 lbs dry chemical, 2.5 lbs CO₂, or 1.25 gallons foam
- ▸B-II: Minimum 10 lbs dry chemical, 10 lbs CO₂, or 2.5 gallons foam
- ▸One B-II equals two B-I units for compliance purposes
- ▸Must be USCG-approved — look for USCG-approved label
- ▸Halon extinguishers still accepted if manufactured before ban and serviceable
Inspection and Placement Rules
- ▸Must be mounted in brackets — not loose or stored in lockers
- ▸Must be fully charged — gauge in the green, no broken seal
- ▸Must be accessible — not blocked by equipment or locked away
- ▸Discharged extinguishers must be replaced immediately — they do not count
- ▸Annual professional inspection recommended for commercial use extinguishers
- ▸Placement: at the helm, at the engine compartment, and in the sleeping area (if applicable)
When is a Fire Extinguisher Required on a Vessel Under 26 ft?
A motorboat under 26 feet must carry a fire extinguisher when any of the following exist: inboard engine(s), closed compartments under seats where portable fuel tanks may be stored, double bottoms not sealed to the hull or not completely filled with flotation material, closed living spaces, closed stowage compartments containing fuel tanks, or permanently installed fuel tanks. Open boats with only outboard motors and no enclosed spaces may not require an extinguisher — but the exam almost always assumes an enclosed compartment is present.
Sound-Producing Devices
Sound signals are governed by 33 CFR Part 86 (inland) and the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS Rule 33). Requirements scale with vessel length.
Required Equipment
Any efficient sound signal
Examples
Horn, whistle, air horn, mouth whistle
Audibility
N/A
Required Equipment
Power whistle or horn
Examples
Electric horn or compressed air horn
Audibility
≥ 0.5 nm
Required Equipment
Power whistle/horn + bell
Examples
Electric horn + bronze or steel bell
Audibility
≥ 1 nm
Required Equipment
Whistle + bell + gong
Examples
Full complement — commercial vessels
Audibility
≥ 2 nm
Required Sound Signals — Exam Reference
Meeting & Passing Signals (Inland)
- — 1 short blast = I intend to pass you on your port side (I am altering course to starboard)
- ——2 short blasts = I intend to pass you on your starboard side (I am altering course to port)
- —1 prolonged blast = vessel leaving berth / restricted visibility signal
- —————5+ short blasts = danger / disagreement signal
Restricted Visibility Signals
- ▸Power vessel making way: 1 prolonged blast every 2 minutes
- ▸Power vessel stopped, not making way: 2 prolonged blasts every 2 minutes
- ▸Sailing vessel underway: 1 prolonged + 2 short blasts every 2 minutes
- ▸Vessel at anchor: rapid ringing of bell for 5 seconds every minute
- ▸Vessel aground: 3 strokes + rapid bell ring + 3 strokes, every minute
Navigation Lights Carriage Requirements
Navigation lights are required from sunset to sunrise and in periods of restricted visibility. Lights must be USCG-approved with correct arc of visibility and color. The exam tests which lights are required for specific vessel types and situations.
Power-driven vessel underway
Masthead (white, 225°) + Sidelights (red/green, 112.5° each) + Sternlight (white, 135°)
Vessel under 39.4 ft — power-driven
Combination sidelights (red/green at bow) + Masthead + Sternlight, OR all-around white + sidelights
Sailing vessel underway (sail only)
Sidelights + Sternlight. Optional: combined tricolor at masthead. No masthead (white) light.
Vessel at anchor
All-around white light (forward). Vessels 50m+ add a second all-around white aft, lower than forward.
Vessel aground
Anchor lights + two all-around red lights in vertical line (day: ball + ball + ball shapes)
Not under command (NUC)
Two all-around red lights in vertical line + sidelights + sternlight when making way
Vessel under 23 ft at anchor (special anchorage area)
Exempt from anchor light requirement in designated special anchorage areas
Light Arc Reference
- ■Red sidelight (port): 112.5° — from dead ahead to 22.5° abaft the beam, port side
- ■Green sidelight (starboard): 112.5° — from dead ahead to 22.5° abaft the beam, starboard side
- ■White masthead (forward): 225° — from 22.5° abaft port beam, through forward, to 22.5° abaft starboard beam
- ■White sternlight: 135° — centered on stern, 67.5° to each side
- ■All-around light: 360° — used for anchor lights and special signals
Exam Tips — Navigation Lights
- ▸A vessel displaying only a white all-around light is at anchor (during hours of darkness)
- ▸Two all-around red lights = not under command (NUC) when not making way
- ▸Two all-around red lights + sidelights + stern = NUC making way
- ▸Sailboats under sail show no masthead white light — sidelights + stern only
- ▸Motoring sailboat must show lights as a power-driven vessel (add masthead white)
- ▸Diver-down flag (alpha flag) — vessels engaged in diving: rigid replica of alpha flag
Uninspected Passenger Vessels (UPV) vs. Inspected Vessels
The distinction between UPV and inspected passenger vessel (T-boat) is one of the most tested concepts for the OUPV (6-pack) license. Understanding this boundary is critical for compliance and for the exam.
Uninspected Passenger Vessel
- ▸Carries 6 or fewer passengers for hire
- ▸Does not require USCG Certificate of Inspection (COI)
- ▸Operator needs OUPV (6-pack) or Master credential
- ▸Ocean/coastal routes: Type I PFDs required for passengers
- ▸Inland routes: Type I, II, or III PFDs acceptable
- ▸Subject to federal equipment requirements (fire ex., VDS, etc.)
- ▸No stability letter or load line required
- ▸No annual USCG inspection (but subject to boarding and spot checks)
Inspected Passenger Vessel (T-Boat)
- ▸Carries more than 6 passengers for hire
- ▸Requires USCG Certificate of Inspection (COI)
- ▸Subject to annual USCG inspection — COI posted in pilothouse
- ▸Operator needs Master credential (with appropriate tonnage/route)
- ▸Stability letter and load line may be required
- ▸Full safety management system requirements
- ▸Manning requirements specified in COI
- ▸Drill requirements for crew (fire, abandon ship, MOB)
Critical Rule: The 6-Passenger Limit
A vessel carries no more than 6 passengers for hire = UPV status. One more paying passenger (7 or more) requires the vessel to be an inspected passenger vessel with a COI. This is absolute — there is no gray area. Operating with 7+ paying passengers without a COI is a federal violation. "Passengers for hire" means any person who contributes consideration as a condition of carriage, directly or indirectly. Friends, family members with no consideration exchanged are not passengers for hire.
Vessel Registration & Documentation
Registration and documentation are separate systems. Know which applies, what must be carried on board, and the display requirements.
State Registration
- ▸Required for vessels with motors 10 HP or more operated on state waters
- ▸Registration number displayed on each side of forward hull — plain block letters, minimum 3 inches high
- ▸Validation decal affixed within 6 inches of registration number
- ▸State certificate of registration must be on board when underway
- ▸Vessel is registered in the state of principal use
- ▸Registration renews every 1–3 years depending on state
USCG Documentation
- ▸Optional for most vessels; required if 5 net tons or more and used in coastwise trade
- ▸Official number carved or marked on interior structure of hull — block digits, min 3 inches
- ▸Vessel name and hailing port displayed on stern — contrasting color, Roman letters, min 4 inches
- ▸Certificate of Documentation (COD) must be on board when underway
- ▸Documented vessels are exempt from state registration (but may still need state numbering)
- ▸Renews annually — USCG sends renewal notice
Required Documents On Board — Summary
- ✓State registration certificate or USCG Certificate of Documentation
- ✓Operator's valid Merchant Mariner Credential (if operating for hire)
- ✓Certificate of Inspection (COI) if inspected vessel — posted in pilothouse
- ✓USCG-approved garbage placard (vessels 26 ft and over in navigable waters)
- ✓MARPOL oil discharge placard (machinery space — vessels 26 ft and over)
- ✓Marine Sanitation Device (MSD) compliance — Y-valve locked if in no-discharge zone
- ✓Float plan (recommended, not required — filed with marina or shore contact)
- ✓FCC Ship Station License (if VHF radio is installed and vessel operates internationally)
Exam Tips — Required Safety Equipment
16 feet is the key PFD dividing line
Vessels under 16 feet: wearable only. Vessels 16 feet and over: wearable per person PLUS one Type IV throwable. The exam tests this distinction frequently — do not confuse 16 ft with 26 ft.
UPV on ocean routes = Type I only
OUPV exam questions about UPVs on ocean, coastal, or Great Lakes routes require Type I PFDs for passengers. Type II and III are only acceptable on inland routes. This is a common trap.
VDS expire — check 42 months
Pyrotechnic VDS (flares) are required to be within their 42-month service life from manufacture date. An officer can cite you for carrying expired flares even if they still work. The orange flag and electric SOS light never expire.
Type V must be worn
A Type V PFD stowed in a locker does not count toward required carriage unless the label specifies it meets that requirement. The exam tests whether candidates know Type V is conditional — it counts only when worn (or as the label dictates).
Bell required at 65.6 ft (20 m)
The whistle-only threshold is under 65.6 ft. At 65.6 ft and over (20 m or more), a bell is also required. At 328 ft (100 m), a gong is added. The exam uses both metric and feet — know both thresholds.
Fixed system reduces extinguisher count by one B-I
An approved fixed fire-suppression system in the engine compartment allows the portable extinguisher requirement to be reduced by one B-I unit. This is frequently tested — know that it reduces, not eliminates, the portable requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What PFD types are required to be carried on recreational vessels?
Vessels 16 feet and over must carry one wearable USCG-approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD for each person on board, PLUS one throwable Type IV device. Vessels under 16 feet and canoes/kayaks of any length must carry one wearable Type I, II, III, or V per person — no throwable required. Type V PFDs count only if worn continuously or if the label specifies it meets requirements for the activity. Children under 13 on recreational vessels must wear a Type I, II, or III PFD while underway unless below decks or in an enclosed cabin.
What are the visual distress signal requirements for recreational vessels?
Recreational vessels 16 feet and over operating on coastal waters, the Great Lakes, territorial seas, and connecting waters must carry USCG-approved visual distress signals (VDS). Vessels operating only in daylight may carry day-only signals (orange smoke, orange flag). Vessels operating at night must carry night signals (electric light, red flares). Most vessels carry combination signals valid for both day and night. Vessels under 16 feet, non-motorized vessels, vessels in organized races, and open sailboats under 26 feet in daylight are exempt from VDS requirements on inland waters. Pyrotechnic signals must not be expired — check the date stamp.
How many fire extinguishers are required on a boat?
The number of USCG-approved B-I or B-II fire extinguishers required depends on vessel length. Vessels under 26 feet with no fixed system: one B-I required. Vessels 26–40 feet without a fixed system: two B-I or one B-II. Vessels 40–65 feet without a fixed system: three B-I, two B-II, or one B-I plus one B-II. An approved fixed fire-suppression system in the engine compartment may reduce the number of portable extinguishers required by one B-I. Extinguishers must be charged, mounted in an accessible location, and inspected annually. Dry chemical extinguishers that have been discharged or have a broken seal must be replaced.
What sound-producing devices are required on vessels?
Under 33 CFR Part 86, vessels under 39.4 feet (12 meters) must carry some means of making an efficient sound signal — this can be a horn, whistle, or any other device. Vessels 39.4 to 65.6 feet (12–20 meters) must carry a power whistle or horn operable by mouth or power. Vessels 65.6 feet and over (20 meters) must carry a power whistle or horn AND a bell. Vessels over 328 feet (100 meters) must also carry a gong. Sound signals are required for restricted visibility, meeting situations, crossing situations, and narrow channels. Know the signals: one short blast (passing on port side of other vessel), two short blasts (passing on starboard side), five or more short blasts (danger signal).
What are the navigation light requirements for recreational vessels?
All vessels must display navigation lights from sunset to sunrise and in restricted visibility. Power-driven vessels underway must show: masthead (white, forward) light visible 225° from dead ahead, sidelights (red port, green starboard) visible 112.5° each, and a sternlight (white, aft) visible 135°. Vessels under 39.4 feet may use combination lights (red/green combined on the bow). Vessels under 23 feet operating in inland waters may use an all-around white light and sidelights if unable to meet the full requirements. Sailboats under sail only do not show a masthead light but show side and stern lights. At anchor, vessels show an all-around white light forward. Vessels under 23 feet at anchor in special anchorage areas are exempt from anchor lights.
What is an Uninspected Passenger Vessel (UPV) and what safety equipment is required?
An Uninspected Passenger Vessel (UPV) is a vessel that carries six or fewer passengers for hire and is not required to be inspected by the USCG. UPVs operating on ocean, coastal, or Great Lakes routes must carry: one Type I PFD per passenger (not Type II or III), one Type IV throwable, fire extinguishers based on vessel length, visual distress signals, navigation lights, and a sound-producing device. UPVs on inland routes may carry Type II or III PFDs. The distinction between UPV and inspected vessel is critical — inspected vessels (T-boats) carrying more than six passengers for hire face significantly more extensive USCG requirements including annual inspections, stability letters, and certificate of inspection.
What are the PFD carriage requirements specifically for Type V PFDs?
Type V (Special Use) PFDs are designed for specific activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, or commercial use. A Type V PFD counts as meeting carriage requirements ONLY if it is worn continuously, OR if its label indicates it satisfies requirements for the activity and the conditions of use on the label are met. If a Type V is stowed and not worn, it generally does not count toward required carriage unless the label specifies otherwise. Inflatable Type V PFDs must be worn to count. Always read the label — the label governs whether the device can substitute for a Type I, II, or III in the carriage count.
What are the vessel registration and documentation requirements for vessels for hire?
Recreational vessels propelled by motors of 10 HP or more must be registered in the state of principal use. Vessels operating for hire in US waters and measuring five net tons or more may be documented with the USCG instead of state registered. USCG-documented vessels must display the official number on the interior of the hull in block letters at least 3 inches high. For vessels operating as passenger vessels for hire, the operator must carry a valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with the appropriate tonnage and route endorsement. The vessel's Certificate of Documentation (if documented) or state registration certificate must be on board at all times while underway.
When are Type I PFDs required instead of Type II or III?
Type I PFDs are required in specific commercial and high-risk scenarios. UPVs operating on ocean, coastal, or Great Lakes routes must carry Type I PFDs for each passenger — Type II and III are not sufficient. Type I PFDs provide the highest buoyancy (at least 22 lbs for adults) and are designed to turn an unconscious wearer face-up in rough water. Inspected passenger vessels on offshore routes must also carry Type I or equivalent. For recreational vessels, Type I, II, or III are generally interchangeable for carriage requirements — but Type I is recommended for offshore passages where rescue may be delayed.
What does COLREGS Rule 38 require regarding whistles and bells on vessels?
COLREGS Rule 33 (not 38) governs sound signal equipment. Vessels 12–20 meters must carry a whistle. Vessels 20 meters and over must carry a whistle and a bell. Vessels 100 meters and over must also carry a gong. The bell must produce a clear ringing sound and is used in restricted visibility — one bell rapid ring every minute for a vessel at anchor, and for a vessel aground, in addition to the bell, three distinct strokes before and after ringing. The whistle on vessels 12–20 meters must be audible at least 0.5 nautical mile. On vessels 20–75 meters, the whistle must be audible at least 1 nautical mile.
Related Study Guides
Man Overboard Procedures
Williamson Turn, Anderson Turn, VHF Pan-Pan, hypothermia survival times, and victim recovery.
Deck General Safety
Fire classes, stability principles, MARPOL, EPIRB, and all distress signaling equipment.
VHF Marine Radio Guide
Channel assignments, MAYDAY procedure, DSC, GMDSS, and FCC licensing requirements.
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