BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base

Module 02 - Boating Equipment

Lifejacket Laws for Children

The laws regarding children wearing lifejackets vary by state. However, federal law requires any child 12 years of age or younger to wear a Coast Guard- approved Type I, Type II or Type III lifejacket while they’re underway on any kind of boat. The only time a child is not required to wear a lifejacket is when the boat is not underway (i.e. when it’s anchored or moored) or if the child is inside the boat’s enclosed cabin. However, the lifejacket must still be readily accessible at all times.

Children tend to panic in emergency situations and they could easily drown if struggling in the water without a lifejacket to keep them afloat and face-up. Make sure you show kids how to properly secure their lifejackets and recommend that they wear them at all times when they’re on a boat or near the water.

A child’s lifejacket should have the following features:

A label indicating that it’s been Coast Guard-approved.
An extra-large collar to support the child’s head.
A safety strap between the legs to prevent the jacket from slipping up over the child’s head.
A grab strap located on the collar.
Reflective material.