I’m Here To Answer The Question : “who Needs To Be Licensed To Operate A Power Boat In Canada.

Transport Canada has been phasing in licensing requirements over the past ten years and as of September 15, 2009, every Canadian (regardless of age) requires a Pleasure Craft Operator Card to operate a recreational motor powered craft in Canada. The legislation applies to all motor powered boats regardless of horsepower or length as well as jetskiis. Proof of competency is required to operate sailboats that are fitted with an auxilliary motor even under sail and to paddle a pleasure craft fitted with a motor even when the motor is turned off.

There are certain restrictions :Age Power Restrictions

Under 12 years of age, and not directly supervised ---- Can operate vessels with under 10 hp

Between 12 years and under 16 years of age, and not directly supervised --------Can operate vessels with under 40 hp .

Under 16 years of age ----- Not allowed to operate a PWC

16 years of age and over ---- No power restrictions

The operator Card is not actually a license. Unlike a driver's licence, the operator card cannot be revoked and is good for life. There is a one time fee to write the test and you require a 75% to pass. The test can be re-written as many times as is required but the test can be taken only once in every 24-hour period.

While Transport Canada administers the regulations - all cards are issued by private sector organizations referred to as “Course Providers”. Something to keep in mind is Transport Canada does not yet have a master database in place to track where and when you wrote your test. If you require a replacement card you will need to remember who you wrote the test with or re-write the test online.

The card must be carried with you while operating a boat that you own or any others. The fines for not having your Pleasure Craft Operator Card on board with you vary province by province; In Ontario the fine is $250.

The Get started , visit boatinglicence.ca to write the boating test now.

By: Robert Spenser.

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