← Washington boating laws›Life Jacket Rules

Washington Life Jacket Rules (2026)

Conditional: 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.

ConditionalVerified Jul 7, 2026

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Official source: parks.wa.gov →

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Life Jacket Rules in states bordering Washington

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

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 →
OregonConditional
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.
Verified Jul 7, 2026 · Source: oregon.gov · Full Oregon rule →

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