These are the items that are required for an outboard motor boat under 26 feet.
1. Proper display of registration numbers on hull Min 3" properly spaced. ex. (WN 2556 LR or WN-2556-LR)
2. Registration papers in order
3. PFDs. Enough for occupants, in good condition, USCG approved
4. Fire Extinguishers (only 1 is required)
5. Sound producing device
6. Navigation lights in working order
7. Marine Sanitation Devices (overboard discharge must have means of locking or not being able to be discharged accidentally)
8. State and/or local requirements (we provide a handout of WA State laws if needed)
9. Overall Vessel Condition: as applies
a. Deck free of hazards
b. Electical/fuel systems (buss bars covered)
c. galley-heating systems
10. Visual Distress Signals (VDS) (minimum of 3 day/night flares or day flag and night electronic SOS signal light)
The main items that fails a boat are VDS flares out off date followed by nav lights not working properly.
Items that are recommended are:
Marine radio
Dewatering device
Mounted fire extinquisher(s) They are not required to be mounted.
Anchor and rode
First aid kit
These are from the form used by both the USCGAux and Power Squadron.
For boats 26 ft + also required are Pollution Placard and MARPOL trash placard.
Inboards are also required to have proper engine ventilation, backfire flame control (if gas),
Over 39.4 ft must hav Nav Rules on board
Bell required if over 65 ft.
The check takes about 30-45 minutes if everything is fairly well in order.
Hope this is helpful
