← Oregon boating laws›Life Jacket Rules

Oregon Life Jacket Rules (2026)

Conditional: Oregon requires all children 12 and younger to wear a life jacket at all times while on an open deck or cockpit when a boat is underway or being towed.

ConditionalVerified Jul 7, 2026

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Official source: oregon.gov →

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Life Jacket Rules in states bordering Oregon

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

CaliforniaConditional
California requires every child under 13 to wear a USCG-approved life jacket on a moving vessel of any length, except in an enclosed cabin or during an emergency rescue.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: dbw.parks.ca.gov · Full California rule →
IdahoConditional
Idaho requires children 14 years of age or younger, on board vessels 19 feet or less, to wear an approved life jacket when the vessel is underway.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov · Full Idaho rule →
NevadaConditional
In Nevada, passengers 13 and under must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while any boat is underway, unless they are in an enclosed area (NRS 488.193).
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: ndow.org · Full Nevada rule →
WashingtonConditional
In Washington, children 12 and younger must wear a USCG-approved life jacket at all times when underway in a vessel less than 19 ft, unless in a fully enclosed area.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: parks.wa.gov · Full Washington rule →

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