Operator Competency

Right now, you must have proof of competency on board if you were born after April 1, 1983, or if you are operating a motorized boat under 4 m (13’1”). This includes a personal watercraft. The operator competency requirements do not currently apply in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.

Proof of competency can take one of three different forms:

• a Pleasure Craft Operator Card;
• proof, such as a course certificate, that you have successfully completed a boating safety course in Canada before April 1, 1999; or
• a completed rental boat safety checklist.

The Pleasure Craft Operator Card is good for life. Remember to make a photocopy of your card as soon as you get it so it can be replaced if it is lost. To replace a lost card, contact the course provider that issued it. For a complete list of course providers, please visit www.boatingsafety.gc.ca.

If you can’t remember the name of the course provider that issued your card, ask yourself the following:

• If you took the test with a family member or friend, check with that person. The name of the course provider will be on their card.
• Did you keep a copy of your receipt or the letter that came in the mail with your card attached to it? The course provider’s name is included on both of these documents.

Note for Holders of Marine Safety Certificates

If you hold any certificate on the List of Marine Safety Certificates Recognized for the Issuance of a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, you are not required to have the proof of competency described above. You must simply make sure you carry proof of certification on board. Proof of certification could be the original document or a copy of the certificate. To consult the list, please visit www.boatingsafety.gc.ca.