Take an Official State-Approved Boater Safety Course
Quick Answer
Alabama law requires specific safety equipment based on your vessel’s size and type. At a minimum, you need a wearable PFD for each person, a fire extinguisher, navigation lights for nighttime use, and a sound-producing device.
Equip your boat correctly and learn the rules through the Alabama boater safety course.
Every vessel must carry one U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable PFD (Type I, II, III, or V) per person on board or being towed. Boats 16 feet and longer must also carry at least one Type IV throwable device (ring buoy or cushion). All PFDs must be in good condition, properly sized, and readily accessible. For detailed PFD rules, see Alabama life jacket laws.
Fire extinguisher requirements depend on vessel length and model year.
Any motorized vessel with closed or semi-closed engine compartments, enclosed living spaces, or fuel-burning appliances must carry a fire extinguisher regardless of size. Extinguishers must be readily accessible and not expired.
Navigation lights are required on all vessels operating between sunset and sunrise or during periods of reduced visibility. The specific configuration depends on your vessel type and size:
For more on after-dark operation, see our guide to boating at night in Alabama.
Vessels under 39.4 feet must carry a way to make an efficient sound signal—a whistle, horn, or air horn. Vessels 39.4 feet and longer must carry both a whistle/horn and a bell. Sound signals are used for passing situations, restricted visibility, and emergencies.
Vessels operating on coastal waters (Gulf of Mexico, Mobile Bay, and connected waterways to the Gulf) must carry U.S. Coast Guard-approved visual distress signals. This typically means a combination of daytime signals (orange smoke or flag) and nighttime signals (red flares or an electric SOS light). Inland-only vessels are not required to carry visual distress signals but should consider doing so for safety.
Boats with enclosed engine compartments and gasoline engines must have a powered ventilation system. Before starting the engine, operate the blower for at least four minutes to clear any fuel vapors from the engine compartment.
ALEA Marine Patrol officers can inspect your vessel at any time on the water. They will check for all required safety equipment. Operating without required equipment is a citable boating violation.
Explore more Alabama boating guides:
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