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Operator Competency Requirements
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Canadian Coast Guard - Operator Competency Requirements
The Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations require operators of
pleasure craft fitted with a motor and used for recreational purposes to have proof of
competency on board at all times.
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How this applies to operators** of
pleasure craft fitted with a motor
and
used for recreational purposes
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Date at which proof of
competency required on
board
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All operators born after April 1, 1983
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September 15, 1999
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All operators of craft under 4 m in length,
including personal watercraft
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September 15, 2002
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All operators
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September 15, 2009
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* These requirements apply in areas outside the Northwest and Nunavut Territories at this
time.
** Applies to non-residents of Canada and whose pleasure craft is in Canada more than 45
consecutive days. Operator card or equivalent issued to a non-resident by their state or
country will be considered as proof of competency.
TIP: Certificates for boating safety courses completed before April 1, 1999 will be recognized.
If you've already taken a course prior to these regulations - and have proof - then that course
certificate or card will be accepted as proof of competency!
Proof of competency can take 1 of 3 forms:
Proof of having successfully completed a boating safety course in Canada prior to
April 1, 1999;
A pleasure craft operator card issued following the successful completion of
a Canadian Coast Guard accredited test;
a completed rental-boat safety checklist (for power-driven rental boats).
The operator card is good-for-life. Boaters can obtain their card after receiving a mark
of at least 75% on a Canadian Coast Guard accredited test. Boaters have the option of
taking this test without first completing a course.
The fine for operating a power-driven pleasure craft without the required Pleasure Craft Operator Card is $250
For a list of organizations that have accredited boating safety courses and tests, please see
the list of accredited course providers , please note that these are the head offices, or call the
Boating Safety Infoline at 1-800-267-6687 to obtain a hard-copy of the list.
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