Exam Questions And Correct Answers

Coast Guard Ordinary Seaman Practice Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the purpose of the International Regulations for Preventing

Collisions at Sea (COLREGS)?

• To regulate cargo loading procedures
• To enforce shipping taxes
• To establish watch rotation standards
• To prevent collisions between vessels

Answer: D

Rationale: COLREGS prescribe navigation rules for vessels to avoid

collisions.

• The line used to raise or lower a signal flag is called the: 1 / 4

• Painter
• Halyard
• Bight
• Standing part

Answer: B

Rationale: A halyard is the rope used to hoist flags on a signal halyard

system.

3. A bowline knot is primarily used to:

• Join two lines together
• Secure a line to a winch
• Form a temporary eye in a line
• Create a stopper knot

Answer: C

Rationale: The bowline creates a strong eye that does not slip under load.

4. The helm order “hard right rudder” means to:

• Turn to starboard slowly
• Center the rudder
• Stop the vessel
• Put the rudder fully to starboard

Answer: D

Rationale: “Hard” indicates maximum rudder angle in the ordered

direction. 2 / 4

5. The primary function of a fender is to:

• Anchor a vessel
• Prevent damage when mooring
• Secure cargo
• Measure depth

Answer: B

Rationale: Fenders cushion contact between the ship and pier or another

vessel.

6. A messenger line is used to:

• Make fast a tow
• Operate a windlass
• Identify navigation buoys
• Pull a heavier line across a distance

Answer: D

Rationale: Messenger lines carry heavier mooring lines to the pier or ship.

• Which fire extinguisher is appropriate for an electrical fire?
• Water
• Foam

C. CO₂

• Class K

Answer: C

Rationale: CO₂ extinguishers are safe for energized electrical equipment. 3 / 4

8. The load-bearing component in a block is the:

• Cheek
• Pin
• Sheave
• Strap

Answer: C

Rationale: The sheave rotates to support and guide the running line under

load.

9. A port hand buoy in the U.S. system is colored:

• Yellow
• Red
• Green
• Black

Answer: C? Wait: US Aids IALA-B: Red Right Returning. Port is green.

Correct: C. Green

Answer: C

Rationale: In the U.S., port side navigation buoys are green and odd-

numbered.

10. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provides information on:

• Ship registry
• Vessel gross tonnage
• Hazardous materials
• / 4