Vessel Safety Checks

What types of vessels should have a Vessel Safety Check?

Any recreational boat, power, sail, jet ski, kayak, canoe, or Stand Up Paddle craft, is eligible for a Vessel Safety Check

What about rental boats?

Rental boats are eligible for a vessel safety check. Vessel examiners are encouraged to coordinate with owners of rental vessels in order to conduct checks on their vessels.

What about inflatable craft?

Inflatable craft are eligible for a vessel safety check, provided they meet the following requirements:

a. Be fully inflated at the time of the check.

b. Have a minimum of three separate air chambers that are not interconnected.

c. Have an installed, rigid transom; a strap on motor mount is not sufficient.

How much does a Vessel Safety Check cost?

They are free and voluntary.

What does the Vessel Safety Check cover?

Certified volunteer Vessel Examiners will examine your vessel to ensure it complies with all state and Federal safety requirements. This includes personal flotation devices, fire extinguishers (if required), visual distress signals, sound producing devices, navigation lights, marine sanitation devices (if applicable), pollution regulations, and other recommended safety items.

How often should I get a Vessel Safety Check?

It is recommended all recreational boaters, including personal watercraft and paddle sport users (kayaks, canoes, paddle boards etc.), take advantage of the Vessel Safety Check program every year.

Which is better, a Vessel Safety Check from the US Power Squadrons or Coast Guard Auxiliary?

Both US Power Squadrons and Coast Guard Auxiliary use the same forms, same criteria, and have to meet the same training standards for Vessel Examiners. It makes no difference if your Vessel Safety Check is conducted by a Vessel Examiner from the US Power Squadrons or Coast Guard Auxiliary

How long does the Vessel Safety Check take?

Larger power or sail boats the Vessel Safety Check may take up to an hour, paddle craft and PWC’s usually less than 30 minutes.

What do I get if my vessel passes?

If your vessel passes the safety check, the Vessel Examiner will apply a Vessel Safety Check decal; these are a good way to show the public that the boat owner is complying with boating safety regulations. The decal also informs boating law-enforcement and safety agencies that your boat was in full compliance with all Federal and State boating laws during a safety check for that year.

If I have current Vessel Safety Check decal on my vessel, I won’t be boarded by Coast Guard/Auxiliary, Harbor Patrol, Sheriffs & Police, and other boating law-enforcement, correct?

No. The decal does not exempt boaters from law enforcement boarding but indicates to boarding officers that the boat has been examined and found to be in compliance with safety equipment regulations.

What happens if my boat doesn’t pass the Vessel Safety Check?

Discrepancies will not be reported to law enforcement authorities. Any discrepancies noted by the Vessel Examiner and steps to correct them will be discussed with the vessel owner.

Where do I have to take my vessel to get a Vessel Safety Check?

Vessel Safety Checks can be completed while your vessel is in the water, on a trailer, on a lift, at the boat launch, in a marina, or at your home. Certified volunteer Vessel Examiners conduct the safety checks when and where it’s convenient for you.