Do I need a boating license to operate a paddleboard in Canada? Mandatory Boater Education

No. You don't need a boating license to operate a paddleboard in Canada. The Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations only apply to pleasure craft fitted with a motor.

Mandatory safety equipment  

Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP) used for navigation fall into the same category as canoes, kayaks, rowboats, rowing shells, and other human powered boats less than 6m and you are required to carry mandatory safety equipment under the Small Vessel Regulations.

• Option 1: WEAR a lifejacket with a whistle (no buoyant heaving line required).

• Option 2: CARRY a lifejacket on board with whistle and a buoyant heaving line.