← District of Columbia boating laws›Life Jacket Rules

District of Columbia Life Jacket Rules (2026)

Conditional: DC follows the federal rule: children under 13 must wear a USCG-approved life jacket when a recreational vessel is underway, except below deck or in an enclosed cabin.

ConditionalVerified Jul 7, 2026

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Official source: mpdc.dc.gov →

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

Life Jacket Rules in states bordering District of Columbia

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

MarylandConditional
Maryland requires all children under age 13 to wear a USCG-approved PFD while underway on a recreational vessel under 21 feet in length.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: dnr.maryland.gov · Full Maryland rule →
VirginiaConditional
On federal waters (most Virginia waters) any child under 13 must wear a USCG-approved life jacket unless below deck or in an enclosed cabin.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: dwr.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →

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