What are the PFD requirements for a PWC?

• A. Inflatable PFD is acceptable
• B. USCG-approved PFD per person onboard or towed
• C. PFD not required
• D. PFD only for the operator

Answer: (B)

On a personal watercraft, every person on board or being towed behind the craft must wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved PFD. The key point is that the PFD is approved by the USCG and that it’s worn by each person—operator and passengers on the PWC, and anyone being towed. This ensures safety for all people connected to the PWC, not just the operator. Some inflatable PFDs are USCG-approved, but the requirement is that each person has a USCG-approved device, so non-approved or un-worn PFDs don’t meet the rule.