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Alabama Life Jacket Rules (2026)

Conditional: In Alabama, children under 8 years old must wear a USCG-approved PFD at all times on any boat, except when in an enclosed cabin.

ConditionalVerified Jul 7, 2026

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Official source: alea.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Life Jacket Rules in states bordering Alabama

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

FloridaConditional
In Florida a child under age 6 must wear a USCG-approved Type I, II or III PFD aboard a vessel under 26 feet while it is underway.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: myfwc.com · Full Florida rule →
GeorgiaConditional
Georgia requires children under age 13 to wear a PFD at all times while on any moving vessel.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: gadnrle.org · Full Georgia rule →
MississippiConditional
Mississippi requires anyone 12 years of age and younger to wear a USCG-approved Type I, II or III PFD whenever underway in a vessel under 26 feet in length.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: dmr.ms.gov · Full Mississippi rule →
TennesseeConditional
In Tennessee, children 12 and younger must wear a Coast Guard-approved PFD on the open deck of a recreational boat unless anchored, moored, or aground.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: tn.gov · Full Tennessee rule →

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