← New Mexico boating laws›Life Jacket Rules

New Mexico Life Jacket Rules (2026)

Conditional: In New Mexico, children under 13 must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while the vessel is underway, unless below deck or in an enclosed cabin.

ConditionalVerified Jul 7, 2026

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Official source: emnrd.nm.gov →

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

Life Jacket Rules in states bordering New Mexico

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

ArizonaConditional
In Arizona, all children 12 years of age and younger must wear a USCG-approved life jacket whenever underway on any vessel.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: azgfd.com · Full Arizona rule →
ColoradoConditional
Colorado requires children 12 years of age and younger to wear a life jacket whenever the vessel is on the water, except when in an enclosed cabin or below deck.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: cpw.state.co.us · Full Colorado rule →
OklahomaConditional
Oklahoma requires all children under 13 years of age to wear an approved life jacket whenever underway in a vessel less than 26 feet in length.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: digitalprairie.ok.gov · Full Oklahoma rule →
TexasConditional
On Texas recreational vessels under 26 ft when underway, all children under 13 must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: tpwd.texas.gov · Full Texas rule →
UtahConditional
Utah requires passengers 12 years old and younger to wear a properly sized Coast Guard-approved life jacket whenever a boat is in operation.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: stateparks.utah.gov · Full Utah rule →

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