In Canada, a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) allows you to operate any motorized boat or jet ski for recreational purposes, regardless of the size or horsepower of the boat. With a PCOC, there is no limit to the size of the boat you can operate.
Once you obtain your Canadian boating license, also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, you can legally operate any size recreational power boat in Canada, no additional certification is required. That includes everything from a 10ft dingy to a 300ft yacht.
The boat must be used exclusively for recreational purposes (no commercial use).
It is against the law to operate a commercial vessel in Canada with only a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. Different certifications are required to operate commercial vessels in Canada.
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What is a Pleasure Craft Operator Card?
A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is a Transport Canada certification that demonstrates the holder has completed an accredited boating safety course and has passed the Transport Canada PCOC exam.
The Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is more commonly referred to as a boating license in Canada. The Canadian boating license never expires and is good for life.
What is the biggest boat you can drive without a license in Canada?
In Canada, all operators of motorized boats and personal watercraft, such as jet skis, must carry a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) or equivalent proof of competency on board, regardless of the vessel’s size or horsepower. This is stipulated under Section 4 of the Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations (COPCRs).
However, this requirement does not apply to operators in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
Regardless of a boat’s length, if it is powered by a motor, you are required to have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card or other proof of competency on board.
Proof of competency can be any of the following:
- A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), that you received after passing a boating safety course approved by Transport Canada;
- A certificate that states you have completed a boating safety course in Canada before April 1, 1999;
- A completed and signed boat rental safety checklist (applicable only for the rental period); or
- A specified marine certificate or equivalency recognized by Transport Canada.
What types of boats can you operate with a Pleasure Craft Operator Card?
You can operate any motorized pleasure craft in Canada with a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC).
Here are some of the types of vessels you can operate with a PCOC:
- Powerboats: This includes any pleasure craft fitted with a motor, whether it’s a small fishing boat, a runabout, or a speedboat.
- Personal Watercraft (PWCs): These are often called jet skis or Sea-Doos. A PCOC is mandatory for operating these high-speed watercraft. Note: You must be 16 years of age or older to operate a PWC in Canada.
- Sailboats with a Motor: If a sailboat has an engine (inboard, outboard or auxiliary), the operator will need a PCOC, even if the motor is not always in use.
- Canoes, Kayaks, and Rowboats with a Motor: While non-motorized canoes, kayaks, and rowboats do not require a PCOC, adding a motor (even a small electric one) means the operator must have a Canadian boating license (PCOC).
- Houseboats and Cabin Cruisers: Larger motorized pleasure crafts such as houseboats and cabin cruisers also require a PCOC, or other proof of competency to operate.
- Inflatable Boats with Motors: Any inflatable boat that is equipped with a motor requires the operator to have a PCOC.
Can I drive a commercial boat with a Pleasure Craft Operator Card?
No, you can not operate a commercial vessel in Canada, with only a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC).
If you are looking to operate a vessel for commercial activity, you will need to obtain a different certification. For example, if you plan to operate a vessel that carries paying passengers, you may need to obtain a Transport Canada Small Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP) certification.
Who needs a Canadian boating license?
In Canada, all operators of recreational powered watercraft must carry a Canadian Boating License (PCOC), or other proof of competency on board at all times, as set out in Section 4 of the Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulation (COPCRs). This requirement does not apply to operators in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.
What is the fine for not having a Pleasure Craft Operator Card?
Under the Contraventions Act, there is a $250 minimum fine for operating a motorized pleasure craft without a Pleasure Craft Operator Card or other proof of competency.
Please note that operating a pleasure craft without a Canadian boating license (PCOC) may also void your pleasure craft insurance.
Be Safe, Get Certified.
It is illegal to operate a powered boat in Canada without a boating license (or other proof of competency), and the fines for doing so can be significant. Additionally, obtaining a boating license is a good way to ensure that you are operating your boat safely and responsibly.
By completing a boating safety course and obtaining your boating license, you can gain the knowledge and skills needed to operate a boat safely, protect yourself and others, and avoid costly fines. If you want to test your knowledge – why not try out the free boating license practice test.
With the convenience and affordability of MyBoatCard.com’s online course, there is no reason not to get your boating license today.
Join the over 2 million certified Canadians, and get your Canadian boating license today!
