(a) No person may operate a watercraft on a waterway until skill of operation and basic watercraft knowledge have been demonstrated.

(b) Operators of watercraft shall check the vessel to ensure that necessary equipment required by laws applicable to the area of operation are present, properly stowed, and in proper working order.

(c) Operators shall comply with all applicable Federal, state, and local laws pertaining to the operation of watercraft.

(d) Operators shall not use watercraft or carry passengers except in the performance of official Departmental assignments.