PWC Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. Under US Navigation Rules, what is the 'give-way' vessel required to do? → Take early and substantial action to keep clear of the stand-on vessel
2. What is a PAN-PAN call used for in maritime communications? → An urgency call for situations that are serious but not immediately life-threatening
3. What is the function of an impeller on a PWC jet drive system? → It draws water into the pump and accelerates it rearward to create thrust
4. What is the minimum safe following distance between two PWCs traveling at speed? → At least 100 feet
5. What are some benefits of jet skiing? → Strengthening muscles and fostering cardiovascular health.
6. Under what circumstances can the Coast Guard or state officers board and inspect a PWC? → At any time for safety inspection without requiring probable cause in US waters
7. What is the most reliable source of marine weather information for a PWC operator before heading out? → NOAA Weather Radio or a VHF marine radio forecast
8. What is the leading cause of PWC accidents? → Striking an object
9. Which personal gear may be required when operating a PWC in colder water? → Wet suit
10. What does it mean if a PWC is equipped with a 'Brake' or 'iBR' system? → The system allows for controlled deceleration and reverse thrust
11. Which vessel is considered the 'stand-on' vessel in a crossing situation? → The vessel on the starboard side of the other
12. What is the purpose of a capacity plate attached to a PWC? → States the manufacturer's listed capacity limits for people and equipment
13. What condition creates a 'following sea' that can be particularly hazardous for PWC operators? → Wind and waves moving in the same direction as the PWC is traveling
14. Which federal agency is primarily responsible for enforcing boating safety laws on US waterways? → The US Coast Guard (USCG)
15. What is the primary danger of a strong tidal current for a PWC rider who has fallen overboard? → It can rapidly carry the rider away from the PWC, making reboarding impossible
16. What is the safest technique for stopping a PWC without a braking system? → Begin reducing throttle early and allow the craft to decelerate gradually
17. When two PWCs approach each other head-on, what is the correct action? → Both vessels turn to the right (starboard)
18. What safety device must a PWC have for sound signaling? → Horn or athletic whistle
19. What blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level is the federal threshold for Boating Under the Influence (BUI)? → 0.08%
20. How do you properly perform CPR on an adult in a boating emergency? → 30 chest compressions to 2 rescue breaths, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute
21. What does a red buoy with an even number indicate in the US lateral marker system? → Keep it on your right when returning from sea
22. When is a boater education card required to operate a PWC in most US states? → For operators below a minimum age threshold, typically under 14-16 depending on the state
23. What is the minimum distance PWC operators must maintain from marine mammals under federal law? → 100 feet for most marine mammals; 200 yards for whales
24. What does the term 'aquatic nuisance species' (ANS) refer to in the context of PWC operation? → Non-native organisms that invade waterways and disrupt native ecosystems
25. What is the primary hazard of 'wake jumping' near other vessels? → Losing control and colliding with other boats or swimmers
26. What is the best environmental practice when refueling a PWC at a marina? → Refuel on land when possible; if on water, use an absorbent pad and avoid overfilling
27. What fuel management rule is recommended for PWC trips to account for unexpected weather delays or detours? → Use one-third going out, one-third for the return, and keep one-third in reserve
28. What is the recommended body position when riding a sit-down PWC? → Sitting upright with knees slightly bent and feet on footrests
29. A PWC underway at night is required to display which navigation lights? → Red and green sidelights plus a white all-around or masthead and stern light
30. Why is it best not to operate a PWC in shallow waters or beds of seagrass? → To prevent dirt and debris from fouling the impeller