California Life Jacket Laws
Key Takeaways
- Every vessel in California must carry a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board.
- Children under 13 are required to wear a life jacket at all times while on a moving recreational vessel, unless inside a cabin.
- Life jackets are mandatory for all personal watercraft (PWC) users and anyone being towed behind a boat.
- Inflatable life jackets are only legal for those 16 and older—and must be worn to be counted as compliant.
- Failing to comply with life jacket laws can result in fines, removal from the water, and increased liability.
- Life jackets should always be properly fitted, inspected regularly, and stored in an accessible location.
Who Needs to Wear a Life Jacket in California?
California law mandates that:
- Children under 13: Must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on a moving recreational vessel of any length, unless they are in an enclosed cabin or on a vessel engaged in an emergency rescue situation.
- Personal Watercraft (PWC) Operators and Passengers: Everyone aboard a PWC, such as jet skis, and anyone being towed behind a vessel must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
- All Vessels: Each vessel must carry a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for every person on board, regardless of age.
Types of U.S. Coast Guard-Approved Life Jackets
The U.S. Coast Guard classifies life jackets into the following types:
- Type I: Offshore Life Jackets—Provide the most buoyancy and are best for open, rough, or remote waters where rescue may be delayed.
- Type II: Near-Shore Buoyant Vests—Good for calm, inland waters where quick rescue is likely. May turn some unconscious wearers face-up.
- Type III: Flotation Aids—Designed for conscious users in calm waters. Common for water sports and general boating.
- Type IV: Throwable Devices—Such as ring buoys or seat cushions. These are not worn and are intended to be thrown to someone in the water.
- Type V: Special-Use Devices—Must be used according to the conditions stated on the label. Many inflatables fall under this category and must be worn to meet legal requirements.
Life Jacket Requirements by Age
- Under 13 Years: Must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on a moving recreational vessel, unless in an enclosed cabin or during emergency operations.
- 13 Years and Older: Not required to wear one by law, but there must be an appropriately sized and accessible life jacket available for every person on board.
Special Life Jacket Requirements
- Paddlecraft (Kayaks, Canoes, Paddleboards): Each person must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket on board. Children under 13 must wear one at all times while underway.
- Inflatable Life Jackets: Only approved for use by persons age 16 and older. These must be worn to meet legal requirements and be considered a valid PFD.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with California life jacket laws can result in citations, fines, and removal from the water by law enforcement. It may also impact liability in the event of an accident.
Life Jacket Safety Tips
- Ensure the life jacket is U.S. Coast Guard-approved (check the label).
- Make sure it fits properly—snug but not too tight, and appropriate for the wearer’s weight and chest size.
- Inspect jackets regularly for damage, fading, or broken straps and buckles.
- Keep life jackets in good condition and store them in an accessible place on your vessel.
- Do not use life jackets as cushions or for sitting—they may lose their buoyancy and effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an inflatable life jacket?
Yes, but only if you are 16 years or older. It must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved and worn at all times to be legally recognized.
