Getting a boating licence in Ontario

Who needs a boating licence in Ontario

In Ontario, anyone operating a recreational motorized boat is legally required to carry a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) or other proof of competency. This applies to boats powered by any type of motor, including:

• pontoons
• fishing boats with gas or electric motors
• inflatable boats with an outboard motor
• houseboats with a motor
• vessels with an unused motor onboard
• cabin cruisers
• jet boats
• personal watercraft like Sea-Doos and jet skis

A Pleasure Craft Operator Card is mandatory regardless of the operator’s age, the size of the boat or the horsepower of the engine. Note that there are boat horsepower restrictions for youth under 16.

If you don’t have a PCOC, you must carry another form of proof of competency to operate a recreational motorized boat in Ontario. Acceptable alternatives include:

• A certificate from a Canadian boating safety course completed before April 1, 1999
• Proof of an equivalent form of competency, training or certificate, such as a professional marine certificate (for commercial or professional operators)
• For non-residents, a recognized equivalent certification or licence from your home country

Operating a private motorized vessel without a PCOC or proof of competency can result in a fine of $250 or more in some cases.

Boat rentals and charter tours

If you’re renting a boat, the rental company will walk you through a rental boat safety checklist. This acts as temporary proof of competency and is valid only during your rental period. A PCOC is not required in this case, but taking a safety course is still recommended.

A PCOC is also not required for passengers on tour boats or charters where a licensed guide is in control.

Non-motorized watercraft

You do not need a PCOC in Ontario to operate non-motorized watercraft such as canoes, kayaks and paddleboards.

What is a Pleasure Craft Operator Card

The Pleasure Craft Operator Card (a boat licence in Ontario) proves that you’ve passed an accredited boating safety course and understand the basic rules and responsibilities of operating a motorized pleasure craft. This includes navigation rules, required safety equipment, boat handling and operation, emergency procedures and environmental responsibility.

This card is recognized across Ontario and Canada and serves as a one-time certification that never expires, so your boating licence is valid for life.

The physical licence must be carried with you whenever you’re operating a motorized vessel and shown to any enforcement officer who asks to see your Pleasure Craft Operator Card. 

A printout, photocopy or electronic version of your PCOC is not accepted unless it is the temporary card you’ll receive immediately after passing the exam.

Replacing a lost boating card

If you lose your boating licence card, replacing it is simple.

Contact the provider from whom you received it to request a replacement. Most companies will have online tools to verify your account and issue a new card for a small fee. You are not required to retake the boating course and exam.

How to get a Pleasure Craft Operator Card

To obtain your PCOC, you’ll need to complete an accredited boating safety course and pass a multiple-choice boater exam. Ontario follows the national standards set by Transport Canada, ensuring your card is valid across the country.

Most courses cost around $40 CAD, but it varies by course provider.

The boating licence course takes between three and five hours to complete. Once done, you’ll need to take a final exam.

Before writing your exam, take a practice boating test online.

You’ll receive instant access to a temporary card upon passing the exam. A permanent PCOC will follow in the mail.

While there is no set age limit for getting a PCOC, the individual must be old enough to understand the course and pass the exam.

Online boating licence providers

You can complete your boating safety course and exam online through these Transport Canada-approved providers:

• BOATsmart Canada
• Boat-ed Canada
• MyBoatCard.com
• Ace Boater
• BOATERexam.com
• CanadaBoatSafety.com
• Drive a Boat Canada

In-person testing providers

If you prefer classroom instruction and hands-on learning, the following organizations offer in-person courses and exams at various locations in Ontario:

• CanBoat/NautiSavoir
• Local marinas, community centres and outdoor retailers occasionally host pop-up testing sessions during the summer. Check local boating organizations or ask your marina or tourism office for upcoming opportunities.

View the complete list of accredited course providers on the Transport Canada website.

What is a Pleasure Craft Licence

Not to be confused with the PCOC, a Pleasure Craft Licence (PLC) is the identification number assigned to your boat.

All powered vessels with a motor of 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) or more must have this licence, unless they’re registered in the Canadian Register of Vessels. This national registry tracking vessel ownership in Canada is mandatory for commercial vessels and some large-weight and horsepower pleasure crafts.

 A Pleasure Craft Licence in Ontario is valid for 10 years, after which it must be renewed. This licence allows authorities to identify the vessel in case of emergency and must be visibly displayed on both sides of the boat’s bow.

You can apply for or transfer a Pleasure Craft Licence for free through Transport Canada.

Operating your boat without a valid licence or proof of registration may result in a fine.

Recreational boat insurance

Insurance isn’t legally required for recreational boaters in Ontario, but if you own or operate a vessel, it’s highly recommended from a trusted provider.

Rental boats typically include liability coverage.

Learn more about boating in Ontario

Find more tips on where to rent a boat, the location of Ontario marinas and boating regulations in an Introduction to boating in Ontario and check out the Top 10 boating destinations in Ontario.

Getting your Pleasure Craft Operator Card is a simple and smart step toward a safe and enjoyable boating experience. This one-time, valid-for-life certification is a small investment that gives you the freedom to explore Ontario’s incredible waterways at your own pace.