The Basics of Acquiring Boat License in Ontario

If you are a boating enthusiast, there could be no greater pleasure than spending a sunny day out in the waters in your pleasure craft. But before you do so, you must acquire the necessary training to operate a boat and the boat license to operate in Ontario. There are different types of boats available out there, and so are different levels of difficulty in terms of operating them. Depending on the level of difficulty, there are training courses that you can take to learn operating a boat, coastal navigation, anchoring and docking.

Here is everything you need to know about acquiring a boating license in Ontario.

How to Get Your Pleasure Craft Operators Card

Anyone operating a boat with a motor must have and carry a Pleasure Craft Operators Card (PCOC). This card is Transport Canada accredited proof which establishes the basic competency to operate a power-driven vessel of any size in Canada.

You can get the boat driving license by taking an online or in-person course and completing the examination. This card, once provided, is valid for life and should be kept handy. You might be pulled over and asked by the authorities to show this card while you are in your boat. However, this card is mandatory for those who are operating a boat.

In case, you are renting a boat you are not required to carry this card. Most boat rental companies are equipped with their Transport Canada checklist and usually walk their guests through the rules before embarking into the waters.

FAQs Related to PCOC

What are the age restrictions related to operating a boat?

Although there is no legal minimum age for acquiring the card, persons under the age of 16 cannot operate a personal watercraft. Also, operators under the age are restricted to 10 hp unless supervised by a person more than 16 of age. Operators in the age group of 12 to 16 are restricted to 40 hp unless supervised by a person older than 16 years of age.

Who must carry proof of competency?

Anyone operating a boat fitted with a motor (even electric) must carry proof of competency. As prescribed by the Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations, operators using a motor fitted personal watercraft for recreational purposes must carry the boat license in Canada. In case of non-compliance, fines up to $250 may be charged.

Which boats come under motorized crafts?

Electric trawling boats, canoes, PWCs and even dinghies fitted with motors come under motorized crafts. Even if the dinghies are being rowed, the boats come under the motorized crafts category. However, if the dinghies, canoes or sailboats are not fitted with motors, they are exempted.

Which boaters are exempted?

Visitors and non-resident boaters are exempted of boat license if their stay is shorter than 45 days. However, operator cards issued by their countries and native states are considered as proof of competency.

What should you do to get your operator’s card?

You can enroll into an online course or enroll into a leading driving school such as Sprint Driving to get the basics in place and secure your boat license in Canada.

So if you have been mulling over the idea of getting your operator’s card, then reach out to the experts at Sprint Driving to do so today!

Connect with Us for Boating License in Canada

Sprint Driving School is the leading driving school in Toronto. Our team of experts can help you with driving lessons for trucks, boats and even forklifts. To know more about boating licenses in Ontario, you can call us at 406.222.4190 to set up an appointment or mail us your queries at [email protected]. We would be happy to help!