What is required to operate a boat in Virginia?
All PWC operators age 14 and older and all operators (regardless of age) of motorboats with a 10 hp or greater engine need to take a boating safety course. Once you complete the course, the course completion certificate or card that is provided by the course provider is what is required to operate a vessel.
What is the most important thing to remember about steering?
The most important thing to remember about steering most PWC (and other jet-drive vessels) is that you always must have power in order to maintain control. If you allow the engine on a PWC or other jet-propelled vessel to return to idle or shut off during operation, you may lose all steering control.
What must be aboard a vessel?
Personal Flotation Devices
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs aka Life Jackets) California boating law requires that all boats 16 feet or more in length, except canoes and kayaks must carry one wearable life jacket (Type I, II, III or V) for each person on board and one throwable (Type IV) device in each boat. PFDs must be readily accessible.
What must you do to maintain steerage on a personal watercraft?
PWCs are designed to be extremely maneuverable. They are built for quick, sharp turns, low-radius circling, and rapid acceleration. However, they are only maneuverable with the throttle engaged – TO MAINTAIN STEERAGE, YOU MUST APPLY THROTTLE!
Is boat insurance required in VA?
Although the law in VA does not mandate that you carry boat insurance, it does require that you register your vessel with the state and take a boating safety course at the completion of which you will receive a certification. Some Virginia marinas also require boat insurance in order for you to dock your vessel there.
Do you need a license to operate a boat in Virginia?
Virginia law requires all motorized watercraft operators to pass a boater safety course and to carry a boater education card. The term “boating license” refers to the “boater education card” that you receive after successfully completing a boater safety course.