Boating License Practice Test 2026 - Free Boating Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct order of priority upon arriving at a navigation lock is based on operational efficiency and safety. Military craft take precedence due to their strategic significance and the necessity for timely movement related to national security concerns. They are followed by commercial vessels, which typically have schedules to maintain for cargo delivery and economic reasons. After these, fishing vessels are prioritized next, as they are often involved in regulatory compliance and may have limits on their fishing time. Finally, pleasure craft are given the lowest priority; they are considered recreational and can afford to wait longer compared to commercial and military operations. Understanding this hierarchy ensures smooth navigation and efficient management of traffic through locks, which is critical for safety and operational effectiveness.