What are the legal requirements to operate a boat?

In Washington, there are a number of legal requirements that must be met in order to operate a boat safely and legally. All boat operators must be at least 16 years of age and possess an appropriate boater safety card. In addition, all boat operators must adhere to the basic navigation rules for the body of water they are operating in. This includes knowing the water current and weather conditions, and maintaining a secure lookout for hazards or other boats. Washington law requires all boats to be registered and carry registration tags when operated. Additionally, all boats must have a safe and operable engine, at least one U.S. Coast Guard–approved personal flotation device (PFD) per person onboard, and visual distress signals such as flares and a working fire extinguisher. Further, if the boat is equipped with an engine, the operator must follow engine cut-off switch requirements. Lastly, all boats must have valid liability insurance and a valid pollution control certificate. It is important for all boat operators to understand and follow these laws in order to ensure safe and legal operation of the vessel.

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What are the legal requirements to operate a boat?

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