I Want To Drive A Motor Boat In Canada, What Are The Formalities?

For many Canadians, driving motor powered watercraft is a popular recreational activity

. Powered watercraft means any personal watercraft, recreational boat, sailing watercraft, motor boat, or any other watercraft that is equipped with a motor. In Canada, all operators of powered watercraft that are used for recreational purposes are mandated to have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card.

Often referred to as a boating license, the boating license is essentially a 'Competency Card.' It is proof that a motor boat owner is competent to operate the boat safely. There are no exemptions with acquiring the Pleasure Craft Card regarding age, engine size, or the size of boat. Motor boat operators are required by law to keep their proof of age and their Pleasure Craft Operator Card with them when they are on the boat. The penalty for driving a powered watercraft without a boating license is $250.00 plus provincial administrative charges. Enforcement of this law is the responsibility of peace officers such as the RCMP and Conservation Officers.

People can get their Pleasure Craft Operator Card by taking and successfully passing a 36 multiple choice exam. There are private organizations that provide classes to help people prepare for the exam as well as administer the exam. To pass the test, applicants must get a score of at least 75%. Once they pass the test, they will receive their own nontransferable boating license which is good for life. Non-Canadian residents must have a boating license if they operate a motor boat for more than 45 consecutive days. As well, their state or country boating license equivalent may be considered as proof of competency.

There are a number of ways to prepare for the Pleasure Craft Operator Card exam. They include: obtaining Home Study Guide, Home Study Guide CD-ROM, taking an Online Safe Boating Course, or taking a Classroom Course. Each method is recognized and approved by Transport Canada. The courses include: rules and regulations regarding boating in Canada, equipping a watercraft properly, safe boat operation including passenger safety, understanding navigational equipment, maintaining the watercraft and its equipment properly and safely, how to respond properly in a boating emergency, and responding to distress calls.

To take the Pleasure Craft Card exam, people will have to pay a fee of $49.95 plus GST The cost includes a Temporary Operator Card Slip given immediately upon passing the exam. The permanent non transferable card will be sent to the recipient's home a few weeks after passing the exam. You can take the official Transport Canada accredited exam on the private organization's website. There are also exams held at certified affiliate locations across Canada.

Boating is an activity enjoyed by many Canadians. It is a great way to bond with family and friends and it is an excellent way to reduce stress. With so many boating opportunities available across the country, it just makes sense to participate in this fun activity. Getting a boating license is essential to starting your boating adventure.

by: Adriana Noton

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