Alaska Life Jacket Requirements

Each person on board an open boat, water skiing, or on an open deck must wear a type I, II, or III USCG-approved life jacket. In addition, one may wear a type V PFD if it is in good wearable condition, and if the PFD is approved for the activity at hand.
A type V PFD used must be approved as a substitute for the PFD required for that boat or the type V is used according to the manufacturer’s manual.

Boat Length

Alaska requires that boats of all lengths abide by the PFD requirements.

Compulsory PFD Requirements for Alaska

All children ages 13 and under must wear a USCG-approved life jacket on board an open boat, when on an open deck, and for water skiing activities. The PFD must fit properly, and be in proper wearing condition.

Exceptions from wearing PFDs in Alaska

The rule on compulsory life jacket does not apply when the child is NOT in an open boat, water skiing, or on an open deck.

^{Disclaimer: The information presented here is meant to be a general reference for educational purposes. Please check with your state for the most up to date information and any current changes in the laws. Source: BoatUS}