New Jersey Marine Officials Urge Early Preparation for 2025 Boating Season

ByDom Castellano

As warmer temperatures approach, New Jersey boating authorities are encouraging vessel owners to complete essential paperwork and safety inspections well before the summer rush begins. With registration renewals, safety certifications, and equipment checks all required for legal operation on state waterways, officials warn that delays could keep eager boaters docked during prime season.

“Spending your down time now preparing your paperwork and equipment ensures you’ll be ready when boating season arrives,” explains a recent advisory shared by Patch.com. “Make sure you have the appropriate equipment and it is in working order to avoid headaches later.”

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Critical Documentation Requirements

New Jersey law requires that all boats longer than 12 feet must be titled, while all powered vessels regardless of length must be registered for use on state waterways. Boaters need to complete these processes through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC), carrying proper documentation whenever operating their vessel.

The New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau has provided a comprehensive equipment checklist to help boat owners verify compliance with state regulations. This includes confirmation that registration numbers are properly displayed on vessels, with characters a minimum of three inches in height and in a color that contrasts with the vessel.

“The registration validation stickers must be displayed on each side of the vessel, positioned three inches behind the State registration number,” notes another Patch.com article detailing the specific requirements. “Any expired decals must be removed or covered, as only current, valid decals should be visible.”

Operator Certification Requirements

Beyond vessel documentation, operators themselves need proper certification. New Jersey requires anyone operating a powered vessel to possess a State Police-issued boat safety certificate, which involves completing an approved course and passing a proctored exam.

“In NJ, you are required to have a NJSP issued boat safety certificate to operate any powered vessel,” the advisory states. “Taking a NASBLA (National Association of State Boating Law Administrators) certified course provides the added benefit of certification recognized in other states.”

Authorities recommend registering for these courses now, as classes tend to fill up as the season approaches. Organizations like Boat Safe US offer approved courses that satisfy both state and national certification requirements.

Critical Safety Equipment Updates

Safety equipment inspections are equally important during pre-season preparation. The New Jersey State Police checklist emphasizes several critical components that require verification:

Personal flotation devices (PFDs) often require replacement due to wear and tear. All vessels must have at least one Coast Guard-approved wearable PFD for each person on board, while vessels 16 feet or longer (excluding canoes and kayaks) must also carry one throwable device.

Visual distress signals, including flares, should be checked for expiration dates and replaced as needed. Similarly, fire extinguishers require verification that they’re both unexpired and approved for marine use.

“Now is the time to check PFDs for tears and wear,” the advisory notes. “Make sure your PFDs are in good shape, and replace any that are not. Check the expiration date on flares and replace as needed.”

Vessel Equipment Verification

Proper functioning of vessel equipment is another critical area of pre-season preparation. Navigation lights, required between sunset and sunrise, must be checked for proper operation. Sound-producing devices, including horns, whistles, and bells (where required), need verification.

For vessels with gasoline engines installed after April 25, 1940 (excluding outboard motors), a Coast Guard-approved flame arrester must be properly fitted to the carburetor. Additionally, adequate bilge ventilation is mandatory, with specific requirements for exhaust and intake ducts.

“Making your preparations now will ensure you do not lose any time getting right to the fun when summer rolls around again,” the advisory concludes.

Photo Source: DepositPhotos

Trailer Registration Often Overlooked

Officials also remind boat owners not to overlook trailer registration. In New Jersey, boat trailers under 2,500 pounds are considered “non-conventional vehicles” that require registration but are exempt from titling. Trailers exceeding 2,500 pounds must be both registered and titled.

The MVC website provides detailed instructions for registering trailers, categorizing boat trailers under “other non-commercial motor vehicles.” Boaters are advised to ensure they have all necessary documentation before visiting an MVC office, including identification, safety certificates, proof of ownership, and payment methods.

For comprehensive information about boating regulations, New Jersey officials recommend reviewing the NJSP Boating Safety Manual. Additional resources are available through the NJ State Police Marine Division and certified instructional services.

By addressing these requirements now, New Jersey boaters can avoid the disappointment of delayed water access during prime summer months and ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience on the state’s waterways.

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