Boating Certification Test Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Boating Certification Test facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Which of the following is NOT a federally required piece of equipment for a 17-foot motorboat operated on US waters? → A working VHF radio
2. A child under 13 on a recreational vessel underway in federal waters must wear a PFD unless they are: → Below deck or in an enclosed cabin
3. What should you do if weather conditions deteriorate significantly after you have already departed? → Seek the nearest safe harbor and wait for conditions to improve
4. What is the minimum number of wearable PFDs required on a 22-foot vessel carrying 4 persons? → 4
5. What precaution should a boater take before heading out when the forecast calls for isolated afternoon thunderstorms? → Plan to return to shore before early afternoon when storms typically develop
6. When using a hand-held flare as a distress signal, which direction should you hold it? → Pointed downward away from your body
7. When approaching a marina or congested anchorage, what is the recommended speed? → Idle speed or 'no wake' speed — as slow as needed for control
8. What is the stand-on vessel required to do when it becomes clear that the give-way vessel is NOT taking appropriate action? → Take action to avoid collision if necessary
9. When operating in a narrow channel, a vessel should keep to which side of the channel? → The starboard (right) side
10. Under the Refuse Act (Rivers and Harbors Act), it is illegal to throw which of the following into any navigable U.S. waterway? → Any refuse matter, including solids and liquids, except natural water runoff
11. What is 'wake damage' liability, and who is responsible for it? → The operator of the vessel that created the wake
12. What does a posted 'No Wake' zone legally require of an operator? → Operate at the slowest speed that maintains steerage
13. How does Emergency Procedures & First Aid affect legal compliance while boating? → It ensures that boaters comply with all relevant laws and regulations.
14. When operating a vessel at night and you see only a white light ahead, what does this most likely indicate? → You are approaching another vessel from the stern
15. How often should you inspect and service a dry-chemical fire extinguisher on your boat? → Once a month for pressure and annually for full service
16. Which fire extinguisher classification is required on most motorized recreational boats? → Class B
17. You are overtaking another vessel in a narrow channel. Which of the following statements is true? → You are the give-way vessel and must keep clear of the vessel you are overtaking.
18. A fire breaks out in the engine compartment. What should you do before using the fire extinguisher? → Shut off the fuel supply
19. Which sound signal indicates a vessel is altering course to STARBOARD? → One short blast
20. A vessel engaged in towing with a tow exceeding 200 meters astern displays what lights at the masthead? → Three masthead lights in a vertical line
21. Under Inland Rules, what is the signal for a vessel that is in doubt about another vessel's intentions? → At least five short and rapid blasts
22. What action must a boater take immediately after discovering a fire extinguisher's pressure gauge is in the red zone? → Replace or recharge it before the next voyage
23. A motorboat sees only a green light ahead at night. What does this indicate? → The vessel's starboard side is showing — it is crossing from right to left
24. What is the safest way to retrieve a person who has fallen overboard (MOB)? → Keep the victim in sight, reduce speed, and approach slowly from downwind
25. How many B-I fire extinguishers are required on a 32-foot motorboat with an installed fuel tank and no fixed suppression system? → Two
26. What does a Type IV PFD refer to? → A throwable device such as a ring buoy or cushion
27. According to the Navigation Rules, what should every operator do when any risk of collision exists? → Take early and substantial action to keep well clear
28. What is the significance of checking dock lines and fenders before departure? → Confirming they are stored onboard ensures safe docking upon return
29. When caught in a thunderstorm on the water, what is the recommended action? → Head to shore, get off the water, and seek shelter
30. You see a buoy that is half red and half green with the green portion on top. What does this indicate? → A preferred channel buoy — the preferred channel is to starboard