No, you do not need a license, also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), to rent a jet ski (PWC) in Canada.
Transport Canada allows you to rent a jet ski in Canada without a boating license if:
- You completed and co-signed a Personal Water Craft (PWC) Rental Safety Checklist with the rental company
- You understand the instructions provided by the rental company
Note: The Rental Safety Checklist is only valid for the duration of your rental.
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Why do you not need a license to rent a Jet Ski (PWC) in Canada?
In Canada, Transport Canada requires all operators of power-driven vessels, including jet skis, to have a proof of competency.
According to Transport Canada, Proof of Competency can be any of the following:
- A completed and signed Jet Ski Rental Safety Checklist;
- A boating license, also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC);
- A specified marine certificate or equivalency recognized by Transport Canada; or
- A certificate that states you have successfully completed a boating safety course in Canada prior to April 1, 1999.
What is a Jet Ski Rental Safety Checklist?
A Jet Ski Rental 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 jet ski with a motor to have proof of competency while on the water. Your jet ski rental 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. A Jet Ski Rental Safety Checklist is only valid for the length of the rental.
Below is a sample Transport Canada – Jet Ski Rental Safety Checklist :
What is the fine for not having Proof of Competency on board a rental jet ski in Canada?
If you’re caught operating a Personal Watercraft (PWC) without a license (PCOC), Jet Ski Rental Safety Checklist, or other proof of competency in Canada, 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 Canada?
Before you can rent a Sea-Doo in Canada, 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 other Marine Certificate.
- Safety Equipment: You must have a minimum amount of safety equipment on your jet ski.
If everyone on the Personal Watercraft (PWC) is wearing a lifejacket or PFD of the appropriate size, the following safety equipment is required:
- 1x Lifejacket or PFD – for each person on board
- 1x Sound signalling device
- 1x Watertight flashlight or 3x type A, B, or C flares
- 1x Magnetic compass [not required within sight of navigation marks]
- Navigation lights [not required if operated in daylight and good visibility]
Can you drive your own Jet Ski without a license in Canada?
No, you can not drive your own jet ski without a license in Canada. It is illegal to operate a personal watercraft (PWC) in Canada 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.
Why should I get a license if renting a Sea-Doo in Canada?
Obtaining a license (PCOC) provides many benefits, even if you’re only renting a Sea-Doo in Canada.
Some of these benefits include:
- Increased safety awareness: the online course teaches you how to operate a jet ski safely, marine safety statistics and how to respond to emergency situations.
- In-Depth knowledge of boating regulations: the online 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.
- Never expires: The Pleasure Craft Operator Card never expires. It’s good for life.
- Valid throughout Canada: The Pleasure Craft Operator Card is valid throughout Canada and is recognized in thee United States.
What size jet ski can you operate without a license in Canada?
You can not drive any motorized jet ski in Canada without having a 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.
Do you need a boating license to rent a boat in Canada?
No, you do not need to have a boating license (PCOC) to rent a boat in Canada.
You can rent a boat in Canada if you have:
- A completed and signed Rental Safety Checklist;
- A boating license, also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (including a temporary 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 (PWC) in Canada without a jet ski license (or other proof of competency), and the fines for doing so can be significant. Additionally, obtaining a jet ski license (PCOC) is a good way to ensure that you are operating your PWC safely and responsibly.
By completing a boating safety course and obtaining your jet ski license, you can gain the knowledge and skills required 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 jet ski license practice test.
With the convenience and affordability of MyBoatCard.com’s online course, there is no reason not to get your jet ski license (PCOC) today.
Join the over 2 million certified Canadians, and get your jet ski license today!
