- What is the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC)?
A PCOC is proof of competency which is required in Canada to operate a boat with a motor. The PCOC is proof that the boater has completed an online or in person course and has successfully passed the Transport Canada final exam.
- Is the Transport Canada boating license mandatory in the Northwest Territories?
Yes. The rule to qualify for the Canadian boating license (Pleasure Craft Operator Card) applies to all motorized watercraft throughout Canada, regardless of the length of the watercraft and the type and power of the motor used. You must have the card even while using an electric motor.
The boat license is valid in Northwest Territories and the rest of Canada.
- Is the Pleasure Craft Operator Card good anywhere in Canada?
Yes, the same card is issued for all the provinces and territories in Canada. Whether you're boating in Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia(BC), Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, Saskatchewan or Newfoundland, the card is legal across the country.
- Do I need a PCOC to operate a boat with an electric motor in the Northwest Territories?
Yes. All boaters must have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card to operate any powered watercraft. This law applies to all boaters, there are no exemptions. "Powered watercraft" means a watercraft fitted with any size motor, even an electric trolling motor.
- How much does the Northwest Territories boating license cost?
The cost of the boating license online safety course is only $49.99 plus taxes. This includes study time, the final Transport Canada exam and mailing of your first boating license.
- At what age can I get my boat license in the Northwest Territories?
There is no minimum age requirement for the boat license, but certain restrictions apply to operate a watercraft according to your age. You only need to pass the final exam.
- Does a pleasure craft operator card expire?
No, your Pleasure Craft Operator Card is valid for life and never needs to be renewed.
- Is the Pleasure Craft Operator Card the same as a Boating License?
A pleasure craft operators card is considered as proof of competency proving the boater has completed a boating safety course and has the knowledge required to operate a vessel safely and understands the rules and regulations of navigating on Canadian waters. A pleasure craft license or registration is a unique number the owner must display on the bow of the vessel. It is mandatory for all pleasure crafts equipped with motors of 10 horsepower (7.5 kilowatts) or more.
- How can I replace a lost or broken pleasure craft operator card?
Before we can replace a lost or damaged Pleasure Craft Operator Card we must be sure that we originally issued it to you. Check with us by calling our toll-free number at 1-800-607-2329 to talk to an agent, or you can fill in the lost card form on our website and we will contact you by email within 24 hours, during our office hours.
If you took your online course with AceBoater.com, log into your profile and click on "Order Replacement Cards".
- Do I need to have a driver’s license to get a Pleasure Craft Operators Card?
No, a drivers license is not required to obtain the Pleasure Craft Operators Card. However to operate a watercraft you must carry your Pleasure Craft Operator Card on board with you.
- Do you have to carry your card on you at all times?
Yes, all operators are required to carry the PCOC on board and have it readily available for inspection by law enforcement when operating a vessel.
- Do I have to be a Canadian resident to get a Pleasure Craft Operator Card?
For non-residents, proof of competency can take one of three forms: A Pleasure Craft Operator Card; A completed boat rental safety checklist (for power-driven rental boats); or, An operator card or equivalent which meets the requirements of their state or country.
- How long is the Northwest Territories boating safety course?
Transport Canada requires 3 hours of study. At Ace Boater we have developed a training program to make your study time virtually interactive and pleasant.
- Where to navigate in the Northwest Territories?
The Northwest territories boasts thousands of rivers and lakes, as well as hundreds of beautiful waterfalls and hot springs.
Amongst them are two of Canadas largest lakes.
Visit Great Bear lake, the world 8th largest lake, at 31 153 square kilometers it is the largest lake in Canada. Abundant with 4 different kinds of Lake Trout this lake is surely to make for a memorable fishing trip for any angler.
Slave lake, measuring in at 615 meters deep it is Canadas deepest lake and 2nd largest measuring 28 568 square kilometers, or roughly the size of Belgium.
Every year nearly 5000 trophy fishers come enjoy the nearly 24 hour daylight and fish the abundant Northern Pike, Arctic Grayling and Trophy-sized trout.
For those looking for a good paddle they can take a 30km excursion through the cliff-lined First Canyon to enjoy a relaxing day at Nahanni National Park the home of the beautiful Kraus Hot Springs. Where the water bubbles in at 32c all year round.
The Northwest territories are sure to be a unforgettable experience for anyone looking to navigate its beautiful waters.
