If you own a jet ski (PWC) in Canada, it is important to properly register or license it in order to legally operate it on the province’s waterways. In this article, we will outline the process for registering a jet ski in Canada and explain the difference between jet ski licensing and jet ski registration.
Table of Contents
The Difference Between Jet Ski Licensing And Jet Ski Registration In Canada
Jet Ski licensing (Pleasure Craft License) and jet ski registration (Vessel Registration) are two separate processes in Canada. Pleasure Craft licensing is the process of obtaining a license for a small, non-commercial jet ski that is used for recreational purposes. Vessel registration, on the other hand, is the process of registering, generally commercial, vessels.
Pleasure Craft License
If you own a non-commercial Personal Watercraft (PWC) in Canada, powered by an engine of 10 hp (7.5 kW) horsepower or more, you will need to obtain a pleasure craft license. Alternatively, to licensing your jet ski, you can register it with Transport Canada even if it is not used for commercial purposes.
A pleasure craft license is a document that provides your jet ski with a unique license number, which is valid for 10 years. Pleasure craft license paperwork must be kept on board at all times when the PWC is being operated.
How To Get A Pleasure Craft License In canada
To obtain a pleasure craft license, you will need to follow these steps:
- You can obtain a pleasure craft license by applying online or by mail. An advantage of applying online is that you receive an acknowledgment number. This number, when marked on the side of your pleasure craft, allows you to use your pleasure craft for 90 days while you await your Pleasure Craft License.
- To apply online, visit the following Transport Canada website:
https://www.pcl-pep.snbservices.ca/1001/pubweb/default.aspx?lang=en-CA - To apply by mail. Download and fill out the following document:
http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Corp-Serv-Gen/5/forms-formulaires/search/results?FormNumber=84-0172 - Provide proof of ownership of the jet ski. This can include a bill of sale, a transfer of ownership document, or a manufacturer’s statement of origin.
- Submit the completed form and proof of ownership to Transport Canada. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada Centre. If mailing the application, mail it along with the other required documents to the following Transport Canada address:
Pleasure Craft Licensing Centre
P.O. Box 2006
Fredericton, New Brunswick
E3B 5G4 - Pay the required fee. The fee for a pleasure craft license is $15, and it is valid for 10 years.
How To Display Your License Number On Your Personal Watercraft (PWC)
To display your pleasure craft license number on your PWC, you must follow these guidelines:
Display the license number on both sides of the bow.
- Display it above the waterline.
- Display it as far forward as practical.
- Display it where it is easy to see.
The license characters must also meet these requirements:
- Be in block letters.
- Be at least 7.5 cm (3”) high.
- Be a color that contrasts with the background.
It’s important to make sure that your pleasure craft license number is displayed correctly on your jet ski, as this is required by law.
How To Change Your Name Or Address On Pleasure Craft License In Canada
A Pleasure Craft License is valid for a period of 10 years from the date of issuance, transfer, or renewal. If you need to make any updates to your license, such as a change of name or address, you must do so within 90 days through the Pleasure Craft Licensing Center online or by mail.
Your pleasure craft may be operated without an accurate name or date on the license for up to 90 days as long as you carry documents that confirm the change of name or address on board at all times until you receive your updated Pleasure Craft License paperwork. Note that making updates to your license does not extend its validity period.
Transferring Personal Watercraft (PWC) Ownership In Canada
If you are transferring ownership of a Personal Watercraft (PWC), the new owner must update the license to reflect the change in ownership within 90 days of the purchase. This can be done through the Pleasure Craft Licensing Center online or by mail.
During this time, the new owner must carry proof of purchase documents on board at all times until they receive their updated Pleasure Craft License paperwork. It’s important to note that the same rules apply for transferring ownership as for making other updates to the license.
For more information, please visit the Pleasure Craft Licensing Centers website:
https://tc.canada.ca/en/marine-transportation/marine-safety/licensing-pleasure-craft
Vessel Registration in Canada
In Canada, you are required to register your jet ski in the Canadian Register of Vessels if it meets any of the following criteria:
- It will have a marine mortgage.
- It needs a reserved name.
- It will be traveling outside of Canada.
Vessel registration is different from licensing. Vessel registration is the title of ownership of a jet ski, which includes the official jet ski name and the name of the owner(s). Registration of a personal jet ski (non-commercial) is voluntary.
When a jet ski is registered, it is given a unique name and registration number. The name and port of registry of the vessel must be displayed on the stern of the jet ski.
How To Register A Jet Ski In Canada
To register a jet ski in Canada, the owner must be qualified, which means they must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or corporation.
In order to register a jet ski, you will need to follow these steps:
- Fill out the relevant Vessel Registration Forms. You can obtain this form online:
https://tc.canada.ca/en/marine-transportation/vessel-licensing-registration/registering-canadian-register-vessels-first-time-registration - These forms include : Form 1—Application for Registry , Form 3—Statement of Qualification for Vessel Registration, Tonnage measurement, Evidence of ownership
- Submit the completed form and proof of ownership to Transport Canada.
You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada Centre.
For online: You can submit your documents and pay using the Canadian Register of Vessels Online Payment system: https://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Comm/5/MVR/eng/canadian-register-vessel/orderYou can mail, fax or email your documents to:
Transport Canada
Vessel Registration (AMSED)
330 Sparks Street
Ottawa, ON K1A 0N8Facsimile: 1-833-983-1377
Email: vr-ib@tc.gc.ca - Pay the required fee. The fee for vessel registration varies depending on the size and type of jet ski.
How Much Does It Cost To Register A Personal Watercraft (PWC) In Canada
In Canada, it costs $250 to register a Personal Watercraft (PWC). This fee includes the cost of reserving your vessel’s name. Keep in mind that there may be other fees or costs associated with registering a PWC, depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
How Long It May Take To Process Your Personal Watercraft (PWC) Registration In Canada
Transport Canada can take up to 30 working days to process your application excluding any delays incurred to obtain missing information and/or documentation.
Benefits Of Registering A jet Ski In Canada
The benefits of registering a jet ski in Canada include :
- Proof of ownership (legal title) for your jet ski;
- The right to fly the Canadian flag;
- A unique name and official number for your jet ski; and
- The right to use your jet ski as security for a marine mortgage.
For more information, please visit the Transport Canada’s Vessel Registry website:
https://tc.canada.ca/en/marine-transportation/vessel-licensing-registration/canadian-register-vessels
The difference between a Pleasure Craft License and a Pleasure Craft Operator Card
It’s important not to confuse the pleasure craft license and vessel registration with the pleasure craft operator card. These are three separate documents that pertain to different aspects of jet skiing in Canada.
The pleasure craft license and vessel registration are for the jet ski itself, while the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is a jet ski license that is required for anyone operating a motorized jet ski in Canadian waters. The PCOC is good for life – it never expires. To jet ski legally in Canadian waters, you may need to have both a pleasure craft license or registered vessel and a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, depending on the type of vessel you are operating.
A Canadian jet ski license is more than just a legal requirement – it is also an opportunity to increase your knowledge and become a safer and more responsible Personal Watercraft (PWC) operator. By learning about the rules of the water and proper PWC practices, you can help to prevent accidents and ensure an enjoyable experience for yourself and others on the water. Try out our free practice test if already have your PCOC and want to brush up on your jet ski knowledge.
In addition to increasing your safety on the water, having a jet ski license can also give you peace of mind knowing that you are operating your jet ski legally and responsibly. This can be especially important if you are involved in an accident or incident on the water, as having a valid jet ski license may be a requirement for obtaining insurance coverage or receiving legal assistance.
Overall, getting your Canadian jet ski license is a smart choice for anyone who owns a jet ski in the Canada. Whether you are an experienced jet skier or a beginner, taking the time to increase your knowledge and obtain your license can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
