{"id":74,"date":"2024-05-08T15:31:00","date_gmt":"2024-05-08T15:31:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/\/?p=74"},"modified":"2024-10-08T16:37:51","modified_gmt":"2024-10-08T16:37:51","slug":"maine-boating-laws-and-regulations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.boatsmartexam.com\/blog\/maine-boating-laws-and-regulations\/","title":{"rendered":"Maine Boating Laws and Regulations: What To Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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If you plan to go boating in Maine \u2014 whether you live there or visit for fun \u2014 it’s crucial to know the laws and regulations of the state regarding getting out on the water. <\/p>\n

From boating to operating a personal watercraft (PWC)<\/a>, fishing, or kayaking for a relaxing outing, Maine boating regulations help govern the waters and keep people safe. <\/p>\n

So, before launching, read our guide to the boating laws in Maine!<\/p>\n

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Who needs a Boater Education Card in Maine?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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If you\u2019re between 16 and 18 years old, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife<\/a> (Maine IFW) requires you to complete a boating safety course if you want to operate a personal watercraft unsupervised.<\/p>\n

Without a boating safety certificate, you\u2019ll need to be accompanied by somebody who\u2019s at least 18 years old to operate personal watercraft on Maine waters.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Maine Life Jacket Requirements<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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State law requires each person on board to have a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved serviceable life jacket. Also, boats longer than 16 feet must have a throwable PFD.<\/p>\n

The Maine Warden Service recommends that everyone wear his or her lifejackets while on the water.<\/p>\n

Safety Equipment<\/h2>\n

In addition to life jackets, the state requires boats to carry specific safety equipment. Here’s a general guide to those requirements: <\/p>\n