Alabama Boating License Practice Test 2025 - Free Boating License Practice Questions and Study Guide

Navigation lights are required to be displayed on a vessel from sunset to sunrise and during periods of restricted visibility to ensure the safety of all boaters. These lights are crucial for helping other vessels see your boat in low-light conditions or when visibility is impaired due to factors such as fog, rain, or storms. By having navigation lights on, you reduce the risk of collisions and help other vessels determine the type and heading of your boat, which enhances overall maritime safety.

While some individuals may believe that navigation lights are only necessary during daylight hours or when anchored, this is not accurate, as visibility issues can arise at any time, day or night. Displaying lights only in crowded waters would also be inadequate, as accidents can happen in any type of environment. Therefore, the regulation mandates that lights be used as specified to provide a consistent standard for safety across all navigation conditions.