What must be visible to law enforcement personnel while operating a PWC?

The choice that indicates what must be visible to law enforcement personnel while operating a personal watercraft (PWC) is the requirement for registration numbers to be displayed. Registration numbers are essential identifiers that help law enforcement confirm the legitimacy of the vessel being operated. Each PWC is required to display these numbers prominently on both sides of the bow (front) of the craft, ensuring they are easily identifiable for inspections or safety checks.

This requirement is critical as it ensures all vessels can be traced back to their registered owners, helping to uphold safety and compliance regulations on the water. It aids law enforcement in performing their duties effectively while ensuring that operators are abiding by the laws regulating watercraft. In contrast, while safety equipment and life jackets are important for safety compliance, they need not be visible in the same manner, and a vessel radio, while recommended for communication, is not a requirement in the context of visibility to law enforcement.