No, you do not need to have a boating license (PCOC) to rent a jet ski (PWC) in BC. Transport Canada allows you to rent a jet ski in BC without a boating license if:
- You completed and co-sign a Rental Safety Checklist with the rental company
- You understand the instructions provided by the rental company
Please Note: The Rental Safety Checklist is only valid for the duration of your rental and no longer.
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Why do you not need a boating license to rent a Jet Ski / Sea-Doo in BC?
Transport Canada requires that you have Proof of Competency to operate any power-driven vessel, including jet skis, in BC.
According to Transport Canada, Proof of Competency can be any of the following:
- A completed and signed Rental Boat Safety Checklist;
- A boating license, also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC);
- A certificate that states you have successfully completed a boating safety course in Canada prior to April 1, 1999; or
- A specified marine certificate or equivalency recognized by Transport Canada.
What is a PWC Rental Safety Checklist?
A Rental Boat Safety Checklist is a checklist rental companies use to ensure they cover all safety information with clients before their rental begins.
It is a requirement in Canada for anyone operating a boat with a motor to have proof of competency while on the water. Your rental boat safety checklist, once completed, is considered proof of competency.
The checklist includes information on safety equipment, rules of the road, local hazards and what to do in an emergency.
The renter must check all boxes on the checklist and the checklist must be signed by both the renter and a representative of the rental company.
Below is a sample Transport Canada “Rental Boat Safety Checklist” :
What is the fine for not having Proof of Competency on board a rental jet ski in BC?
If you’re caught operating a personal watercraft (PWC) without a boating license (PCOC), Rental Boat Safety Checklist or other proof of competency in BC, you could face a minimum fine of $250.
Remember that jet skiing without proof of competency is not only illegal, but it’s also dangerous.
What do you need to rent a jet ski in BC?
Before you can rent a Sea-Doo in BC, you must meet certain requirements.
These requirements include:
- Age: Jet ski operators must be 16 years of age or older, regardless of the jet ski’s horsepower. Click here for further age restriction information.
- Proof of Competency: You must have either a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, Completed Rental Boat Safety Checklist or Marine Certificate.
- Safety Equipment: The rental company must have a minimum amount of safety equipment on the boat such as:
- A lifejacket or PFD of the appropriate size onboard for each person:
- A sound signaling device;
- A watertight flashlight or three type A, B, C or D flares (only one can be Type D);
- Navigation lights if operating between sunset and sunrise or in restricted visibility conditions;
- A magnetic compass, unless the PWC is 8 meters or shorter and operated within sight of navigation marks.
Can you drive your own jet ski without a license in BC?
No, you can not drive your own jet ski without a license in BC. It is illegal to operate a personal watercraft (PWC) in BC without a boating license or other Proof of Competency.
A Rental Safety Checklist can only be used on a rental jet ski and is not recognized as proof of competency on a privately owned jet ski.
What size jet ski motor can you drive without a boating license in BC?
You can not drive a jet ski with a motor in BC without having a boating license (PCOC) or other proof of competency, regardless of the motor size or power. This includes all electrical personal watercraft (PWC), regardless of their power rating.
Why should I get a boating license if renting a Sea-Doo in BC?
Obtaining a boating license provides many benefits, even if you’re only renting a Sea-Doo in BC.
Some of these benefits include:
- Increased safety awareness: the online boating license course teaches you how to operate a jet ski safely and how to respond to emergency situations.
- In-Depth knowledge of boating regulations: the online boating license course also teaches you about boating regulations and laws, such as speed limits, right of way, and alcohol consumption.
- Ability to operate a wider variety of Sea-Doo’s: Having a boating license (PCOC) allows you to operate a wider variety of jet ski’s, which can be useful if you plan on renting a jet ski with a larger engine in the future.
- Faster Rental Check-In: Many rental companies have faster check-in processes for renters that already have their Pleasure Craft Operator Card.
Do you need a boating license to rent a boat in BC?
No, you do not need to have a boating license (PCOC) to rent a boat in BC.
You can rent a boat in BC if you have:
- A completed and signed Rental Safety Checklist;
- A boating license, also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC);
- A certificate that states you have successfully completed a boating safety course in Canada prior to April 1, 1999; or
- A specified marine certificate or equivalency recognized by Transport Canada.
Be Safe, Get Certified.
It is illegal to operate a powered Personal Watercraft in BC 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 PWC 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 jet ski safely, protect yourself and others, and avoid costly fines. If you want to test your knowledge – why not try out the free BC 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 boating license in BC today!
