No, you can not operate any type of pleasure craft equipped with a motor (even an electric motor or jet ski) in Canada without having a boating license, also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, or another proof of competency on board with you.
Other proofs of competency that are valid in Canada include:
- A certificate that states you have successfully completed a boating safety course in Canada prior to 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.
Table of Contents
What is a Pleasure Craft Operator Card?
A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), often referred to as a Canadian Boating License — is a federal competency card given to Canadian boaters once they successfully complete a Transport Canada -accredited boating safety course and PCOC exam. The PCOC is a valid in all Canadian provinces and territories.
What is the fine for driving a boat without a license in Canada?
Under the Contraventions Act, if you are caught operating a recreational powered watercraft without a boating license, also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, or proof of competency in Canada, you could face a minimum fine of $250.
Remember that boating without proof of competency is not only illegal, but it’s also dangerous. By obtaining a boating license, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills necessary to operate your boat safely and responsibly.
Is it mandatory to obtain a boating license in Canada?
Yes – it is mandatory to obtain a Canadian boating license (or other proof of competency) if you are operating a motorized watercraft in Canada.
What size boat motor can you drive without a license in Canada?
You can not operate any power-driven recreational vessel regardless of the size of the motor in Canada without having either a boating license (PCOC) or another form of proof of competency.
That means that if you’re planning to operate a small, lightweight boat with a small motor (even a small electric motor), you will need to obtain a Canadian boating license (Pleasure Craft Operator Card).
Do I need a driver's license to operate a boat in Canada?
No, you don’t need a automotive driver’s license to operate a boat in Canada. However, you will need a boating license, also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC).
The PCOC is issued by MyBoatCard.com® and is required for anyone who operates a motorized non-commercial boat in Canada.
Can I operate a boat if I have lost my driver's license?
Do I have to carry my boating license with me on the boat?
Yes, it is a legal requirement to carry your boating license, also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, with you on the boat. If you are stopped by a law enforcement officer and cannot present your boating license or another recognized proof of competency, you may be fined $250.
If carrying a Pleasure Craft Operator Card as proof of competency, the original card must be carried on board. Photocopies or electronic copies of the card will not be accepted.
Make sure you also have your required safety equipment on board before you leave the dock.
Can you get a temporary boating license in Canada?
Yes, you can obtain a temporary Canadian boating license. MyBoatCard.com makes it easy. Simply complete the online boating safety course and Transport Canada exam and a temporary boating license will be issued to you immediately after completing the exam.
You can print the temporary boating license at home and go boating straight away. The temporary boating license is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. This is a great option for those who need to operate a boat at short notice.
How do I get a Canadian boating license?
To get a Canadian boating license, you need to complete the MyBoatCard.com® boating safety course. The course is Transport Canada accredited and takes roughly 3 to 4 hours to complete. The course covers everything you need to know to operate a boat safely, including boating regulations, navigation, statistics, and emergency procedures.
Once you have completed the course, you will need to take the Transport Canada boating license exam, which can also be done online. The exam is open book and exam retries are free.
When you pass the exam, MyBoatCard.com will then issue you a temporary boating license (PCOC) that you can print at home and go boating straight away. Your permanent PCOC will be shipped out to you within 48 hours.
How long does it take to get a boating license in Canada?
It takes on average 3-4 hours to get a Canadian boating license, also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. This includes 3 hours to study the online boating safety course and 1 hour to complete the Transport Canada exam.
The amount of time it takes to obtain a Canadian boating license varies depending on how quickly you are able to complete the course. Once you have completed the course and passed the exam, you can print your temporary boating license (PCOC) at home and go boating straight away. Your permanent boating license (PCOC) or replacement PCOC, will be shipped out to you within 48 hours.
Be Safe, Get Certified.
It is illegal to operate a recreational power 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. So why wait? Join the over 2 million certified Canadians, and get your Canadian boating license today!
