Boating License Test Basic Boating License Practice 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When two power-driven vessels are approaching head-on, what is the correct action?
- Both alter course to starboard (Correct answer)
- Both alter course to port
- The larger vessel holds course
- Both maintain speed and course
Correct answer: Both alter course to starboard
In a head-on meeting, each vessel turns to starboard so they pass port-to-port.
Question 2: What does a red buoy mark when returning from open water into a harbor in the U.S.?
- Keep it on your starboard (right) side (Correct answer)
- Keep it on your port (left) side
- It marks a swimming area
- It marks a fuel dock
Correct answer: Keep it on your starboard (right) side
Under 'red, right, returning,' keep red buoys on your right when heading upstream or into port.
Question 3: Which vessel is the 'give-way' vessel when a power-driven boat meets a sailboat under sail?
- The power-driven boat (Correct answer)
- The sailboat
- Whichever is faster
- Whichever is larger
Correct answer: The power-driven boat
A power-driven vessel must generally give way to a vessel under sail.
Question 4: What is the primary purpose of a boat's capacity plate?
- List maximum weight and number of people (Correct answer)
- Show the hull identification number
- Display registration numbers
- Indicate fuel type
Correct answer: List maximum weight and number of people
The capacity plate states the maximum safe load of people and weight the boat can carry.
Question 5: What sound signal indicates a vessel intends to pass you on its port side (one short blast)?
- One short blast (Correct answer)
- Two short blasts
- Three short blasts
- Five short blasts
Correct answer: One short blast
One short blast signals an intent to alter course to starboard, passing port to port.
Question 6: What is the danger signal used when a boater doubts another vessel's intentions?
- Five or more short rapid blasts (Correct answer)
- One long blast
- Two long blasts
- A single short blast
Correct answer: Five or more short rapid blasts
Five or more short, rapid blasts is the recognized danger or doubt signal.
Question 7: Where should the heaviest weight be placed to keep a small boat stable?
- Low and centered (Correct answer)
- High on the bow
- On one side
- On the stern only
Correct answer: Low and centered
Keeping weight low and centered lowers the center of gravity and improves stability.
