What are the legal requirements to operate a boat?

In Virginia, anyone operating a boat is required to have a valid boat operator’s license or certificate of number. The operator must also be at least 16 years of age. The law requires that anyone operating a motorized vessel must have a Certificate of Number which can be obtained from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR). The operator must display their registration numbers, as well as the vessel’s name and address, on the side or back of the boat in a clear and legible manner. Additionally, all boats must be equipped with fire extinguishers, navigation lights, life vests, and other required safety equipment. Virginia boaters are also required to carry proof of insurance when operating their boat. This proof should include the contact information of the insurance provider, the policy number, the name of the insured, and a description of the boat being covered. This proof of insurance must be with the operator at all times while on the water. Finally, boat operators must follow boating safety regulations and understand and be able to adhere to the navigational rules set forth by the United States Coast Guard. This includes paying attention to the weather, staying aware of other boaters and swimmers in the area, and using caution when manuevering. These regulations not only keep individual boaters safe, but also other boaters, passengers, and recreational swimmers.

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What are the legal requirements to operate a boat?

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