Florida the longest gulf coast coastline of any gulf coast state and has an extensive system of rivers and bays making it the largest gulf coast boating destination. The number of boaters and the huge expanse of water that make up the Florida boating environment make it vitally important you know the Florida boating laws when you are operating in Florida and that you follow the rules.

Here are links and resources to make certain you don't run into a problem trying to use your boat in Florida.

Vacationing in Florida and what you need to do in order to use your boat.

As long as you are not staying more than 90 days, you do not need to register your boat in Florida.

Florida recognizes valid registration certificates and numbers issued to visiting boaters for a period of 90 days. If you will be using your boat in Florida longer than 90 days must register it with a county tax collector. You can retain the out-of-state registration number if you plan to return to his home state within a reasonable period of time. 

Marine Sanitation Devices:

Florida follow the US Coast Guard regulations with respect to marine sanitation devices. If you meet the federal (Coast Guard) requirement you are okay in Florida.

Navigation Lights:

Vessels operating in Florida must display proper navigation lights from sunset to sunrise and during periods of reduced visibility. These means you need to turn on your lights at night and in rain, haze, fog or anything else that makes it hard to see.

Safety Equipment:

• Boaters must comply with all US Coast Guard regulations in addition to any additional Florida regulations
• All children under the age of 6 must wear a Type I, II or III life jacket at all times while underway on any vessel less than 26 feet in length
• All vessels must have, onboard, a wearable life jacket for each person onboard.
•  Vessels 16 feet in length or longer must have an approved Type V throwable PFD device
• All vessels must have a sound producing device such as a whistle, horn,bell, etc.
• Flares or Signaling devices: Less than 16 feet you must have 3 nighttime devices when operating between sunset and sunrise - Longer than 16 feet you must have 3 day and 3 night or 3 combination signal units
• Vessels with enclosed fuel tanks or enclosed compartments must have at least 1 marine type fire extinguisher

Florida has vessel registration requirements for all residents. You can  find information on vessel registration and licensing with the links below.

All vessels, regardless of length, that use any kind of motor, must be registered.

• Florida Vessel Registration
• Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles