COLORADO BOATING
LICENSE PRACTICE TEST
PART 1
Question 1: What information is typically shown on a recreational boat's capacity plate?
Choices:
1) Maximum persons or weight and the recommended maximum horsepower 2) The vessel's current market value and insurance limit 3) The owner's mailing address and emergency contact 4) The minimum water depth required for launching Correct Answer: Maximum persons or weight and the recommended maximum horsepower Explanation: A capacity plate identi�es the safe carrying capacity of the boat and commonly includes limits for people or weight and engine horsepower. Staying within these limits reduces the risk of overloading and instability.Page 1
Question 2: Who is the best person to receive your �oat plan before you leave the dock?
Choices:
1) A passenger already on your boat 2) A responsible friend or relative who will remain ashore 3) The operator of the nearest boat on the water 4) A fuel-dock attendant who does not know your route
Correct Answer: A responsible friend or relative who will remain ashore
Explanation: A �oat plan should be left with a reliable person ashore who can alert authorities if you do not return as expected. It should include your route, vessel description, passengers and expected return time.Question 3: Before fueling a gasoline-powered boat at a dock, which action is most important?
Choices:
1) Start the bilge blower and leave the engine running 2) Open every fuel container on board 3) Shut o� engines and electrical equipment that could create a spark 4) Move all passengers into the cabin Correct Answer: Shut o� engines and electrical equipment that could create a spark Explanation: Fuel vapors can ignite explosively. Before fueling, shut o� engines and spark- producing electrical equipment and keep �ames and smoking materials away from the fueling area.Page 2
Question 4: Why should you avoid �lling a boat's fuel tank completely to the brim?
Choices:
1) A completely full tank prevents the engine from starting 2) Fuel at the top of the tank turns into water 3) A full tank makes the steering wheel lock 4) Fuel needs room to expand as its temperature rises
Correct Answer: Fuel needs room to expand as its temperature rises
Explanation: Gasoline expands as it warms. Leaving expansion space in the tank helps prevent fuel from spilling or venting into the boat or water.
Question 5: Where should you complete most launch preparations before backing a
trailer onto a busy boat ramp?
Choices:
1) In a staging area away from the launch lane 2) On the ramp with the tow vehicle blocking tra�c 3) Only after the boat is �oating free 4) At the end of the dock after other boats arrive
Correct Answer: In a staging area away from the launch lane
Explanation: Prepare the boat in a staging area before entering the ramp. Loading gear, removing tie-downs and checking the drain plug away from the launch lane keeps tra�c moving and reduces ramp hazards.Page 3