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Official Website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Powered Boating Equipment

    Enjoy a boating outing on the water equipped with the right safety equipment. It's important to be prepared before you go.

    Close-up of a person wearing a life jacket operating a jet ski (or personal watercraft) on the Susquehanna River

    Life Jackets first

    Before you head out on the water, make sure you have the required safety equipment needed for powerboating. 

    Life jackets are a must-have.

    Get the Right Life Jacket

    Register Your Boat

    Boat Registration is your ticket to the water. Learn more about what is needed to register and title your powered boat.

    Apply for New Powered Boat Registration

    Minimum Required Safety Equipment for Motorboats

    Chart indicating minimum required safety equipment for motorboats - from left to right columns, equipment, Less than 16 feet, 16 to less than 26 feet, 26 to less than 40 feet, 40 to not more than 65 feet. Rows include backfire flame control, sound-producing device, portable fire extinguisher when required, navigation lights, muffling devices, life jackets and throwable devices, ventilation.

    Although not required by law, consider carrying additional equipment to be most prepared for while on the water.

    Chart saying Recommended Equipment (NOT REQUIRED BY LAW). The list is Paddles or oars, Fenders, Anchors with sufficient line, First aid kit, Dock lines, Charts and compass, Extra clothing, Sunscreen and sunglasses, Food and water, Spare fuses and bulbs, Marine radio or cellular phone, Gas can, Tool kit with spare spark plugs, Extra line or throw bag, Flashlight, Visual distress signals, Portable Fire extinguisher (required on Lake Erie), Bailer