Exam verified with correct answers
2026/2027 version
A sailboat is operating under sail at night. Which of these lights should be used?-
correct answer >>>white sternlight
You are operating a powerboat at night. You see green and white lights on another
boat. What do these lights tell you?- correct answer >>>You are the stand-on vessel but
be prepared to give way if necessary.
When a sailboat is approaching a powerboat, which one is the give-way vessel?-
correct answer >>>powerboat
You encounter another boat. You assess the situation and determine that you are the
give-way vessel. What must you do?- correct answer >>>Take early and substantial
action to keep well away.
What is your primary responsibility when other boats are in your area?- correct answer
>>>to keep a proper lookout and avoid a collision
How does a vessel operator keep a proper lookout?- correct answer >>>by watching
and listening
What is every vessel operator required to do?- correct answer >>>Take all necessary
action to avoid a collision.
A powerboat is underway in the fog. What sound signal should you hear?- correct
answer >>>one prolonged blast every two minutes
Which of these is a factor that determines if a speed is safe for your boat?- correct
answer >>>hazards in the water
How do you know when you are operating your vessel at a safe speed?- correct answer
>>>You have enough time to avoid a collision.
How do most anchors hold a recreational boat in place?- correct answer >>>by digging
into the bottom when pulled horizontally
You are getting ready to retrieve your anchor. Where should you position your boat?-
correct answer >>>directly over the anchor
How are nun buoys marked?- correct answer >>>red with even numbers
, You see a red buoy. What should you do?- correct answer >>>Keep it on your right
when heading upstream.
You see a white buoy with orange markings and black lettering. What type of buoy is
this?- correct answer >>>regulatory marker
One type of marker is used to warn boaters not to pass between the marker and the
shore. What color is this marker?- correct answer >>>white with black vertical stripes
How can propeller strike accidents be avoided?- correct answer >>>Turn off the engine
when passengers are boarding.
What is the main function of an engine cut-off switch?- correct answer >>>to shut off the
engine if the operator is thrown overboard
What is the most important thing to remember about steering a PWC?- correct answer
>>>You lose all steering control when the engine is idling or shut off.
You are operating a PWC. You are heading straight toward a dock. You turn the engine
off and then turn the steering control hard right. Which way will the PWC go?- correct
answer >>>It will continue straight toward the dock.
Which part of a PWC is dangerous to your hands, feet, and hair?- correct answer
>>>pump intake area
What is true about changing water levels?- correct answer >>>Changing water levels
can cause special hazards for boaters.
All fire extinguishers are labeled with a letter and a number. What does the number
indicate?- correct answer >>>the relative size of the extinguisher
Whom should you contact if you see suspicious activities on the waterways?- correct
answer >>>U.S. Coast Guard
Where is the best place to put PFDs while you are out on your boat?- correct answer
>>>in an open bin near the passenger seats
You are boating in rough waters. If you have an emergency, rescue may take a while.
Which type of PFD is recommended?- correct answer >>>offshore life jacket
Which PFD is designed to be thrown to someone in the water?- correct answer >>>ring
buoy
When is the best time to wear a PFD?- correct answer >>>at all times