Who is required to wear USCG approved personal flotation device?

In the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) mandates that all individuals on vessels under 16 feet in length must wear a USCG-approved personal flotation device (PFD) while underway. Additionally, children under 13 years old are required to wear a PFD at all times on recreational boats, unless they are in an enclosed cabin. Specific regulations may vary by state, so it's important to check local laws as well.