Specific PFD Requirements

Idaho law requires the following with respect to PFDs.

• All recreational vessels must have at least one wearable PFD that is USCG–approved and of the proper size for each person on board or being towed. Sizing for PFDs is based on body weight and chest size.
• In addition to the above requirement, vessels 16 feet in length or longer (except canoes and kayaks of any length) must have one USCG–approved throwable device on board and readily accessible.
• Children 14 years of age or younger, on board vessels 19 feet or less, must wear an approved PFD when the vessel is underway.
• Seaplanes, sailboards, and certain racing vessels are exempt from the above PFD requirements. Fly-fishing float tubes do not require PFDs on lakes with less than 200 surface acres. Fly-fishing pontoons do require PFDs on all state waters.
• Each person riding on a PWC must wear a USCG–approved wearable PFD.
• Each person being towed behind a vessel must wear a USCG–approved PFD.
• All PFDs must be in good and serviceable condition, the correct size for the intended wearer, readily accessible, and labeled “USCG–approved.”