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 (PCOC) issued following the successful completion of a Canadian Coast Guard accredited test;
- a completed rental-boat safety checklist (for power-driven rental boats).
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You require your Card now if you operate a motorized boat and:
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You were born after April 1, 1983 or
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The boat is under 13.1 feet (4 meters) in length ( yes - that includes personal watercraft or "jet-skis" ).
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All operators of motorized boats require their Card by September 15, 2009.
The PCOC is good-for-life.
These requirements apply in areas outside the Northwest and Nunavut Territories at this time.
U.S. Boaters Visiting Canada: Also applies to non-residents of Canada 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.
EVEN IF YOU HAVE YOUR CARD, THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS APPLY:
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Persons under 12 years of age who are not directly supervised shall not operate a boat with an engine larger than 10 hp (7.5 KW)**
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Persons between 12 and 16 years of age and not directly supervised shall not operate a boat with an engine larger than 40 hp (30 KW)**
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Persons under 16 years of age shall not operate a PWC (Personal Watercraft or "jet-ski")
** Directly supervised means accompanied and directly supervised by a person 16 years of age or older.
WHY NOT TAKE OUR BOAT PRO COURSE AND GET THE PCOC - It's Good For Life!
Click here for course and registration info:
REMEMBER: the PCOC is the minimum required proof of operator competency. The PCOC will get you out there, but a course like CPS BOATING (14 wks.) is what will get you back safely!
