1-10Operation by Minors and LicensingIf your boat will be operated by a minor, remember to have an adult present at all times.Many states have laws regarding minimum age and licensing requirements for minors.Some states require boat training courses, certification, or licensing for minors and/oradults. Contact state and local authorities for requirements that apply in your area.Safety and Required EquipmentYour boat and equipment must be in compliance with federal, state and local safetyequipment regulations. USCG regulations require certain safety equipment be present onyour boat during operation. For a detailed description, obtain “Federal Requirements forRecreational Boats” published by the U.S. Coast Guard and available online at:http://www.uscgboating.org/regulations/federal_requirements_brochure.aspx.In addition to the USCG regulations, other local and/or international law enforcementagencies may have similar requirements. You should check with your local marine lawenforcement agency regarding any such requirements before boating.Equipment requirements for coastal and inland waters differ. Check with local authoritiesand/or the USCG for further information about coastal water requirements.The Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 (FBSA/71) and the National Recreation BoatingSafety Program have established minimum safety standards for boats and associatedequipment, specified by the USCG. In addition, the American Boat and Yacht Council(ABYC) and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) work with boatbuilders to develop voluntary standards that exceed the USCG requirements. Theincluded safety equipment on your boat meets or exceeds the standards of the USCG,ABYC and the NMMA.Some required safety equipment, such as life jackets (PFDs), are not included with yourboat. Your dealer can help you choose the appropriate equipment.Many states’ equipment requirements go beyond USCGrequirements. Contact your state boating office for furtherinformation.