Form 84-0172E - Pleasure Craft Licence
Pleasure Craft Licence Application
What Is a Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL)?
A Pleasure Craft Licence is issued for the boat itself, not the operator. It is a unique identification number assigned to a vessel, similar to a vehicle licence plate. A PCL is required for any recreational boat with at least one engine and a combined total of 10 horsepower or more. The licence helps authorities quickly identify the owner of a vessel in situations like emergencies, accidents, or when dealing with abandoned or unsafe boats.
The PCL is tied to the boat, not the person, which is why even if multiple people operate the same boat, only one PCL is needed for the vessel. It ensures that authorities can always trace ownership and maintain accurate records for enforcement, safety, and environmental protection purposes.
How Is a PCL Different from a PCOC?
The Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), on the other hand, is for the person operating the boat. It’s similar to a driver’s licence and is mandatory for anyone operating a motorized pleasure craft in Canada. To obtain a PCOC, a boater must complete an accredited boating safety course and pass a test demonstrating knowledge of navigation rules, safety practices, and emergency procedures.
What Has Changed About the PCL?
Transport Canada has recently updated the rules surrounding PCLs. Effective December 31, 2025, new and renewed pleasure craft licences are only valid for five years, replacing the previous system of 10-year or lifetime licences. Existing lifetime licences will be gradually phased out and replaced with five-year licences when renewed.
Boat owners are now required to pay a $24 service fee for issuing, renewing, transferring, or replacing a licence. This fee will increase annually based on inflation. Additionally, licence holders must update any changes to their name or address within 30 days instead of the previous 90-day period. These changes aim to ensure accurate ownership records and help authorities respond more efficiently in emergencies or when vessels are abandoned or unsafe.
Apply Online
There are many advantages to applying for your licence online. One is that as soon as your application is submitted, we will send you an email with a temporary pleasure craft licence that will allow you to use your craft immediately. This temporary licence is valid for 30 days and must be kept onboard at all times.
Apply by mail
Provide signed photocopies of your supporting documents, originals are not required.
Mail your application and documents to:
- Pleasure Craft Licensing Centre
- PO Box 2006
- Fredericton NB E3B 5G4
You must also submit the following supporting documents for a new pleasure craft application:
- Proof of ownership or bill of sale;
- Copy of valid identification: driver's license or passport;
- Color photograph, side view of boat;
- Letter of authorization from a third party (if the applicant is someone other than the owner);
Is there a tax to pay on used boats in Ontario?
If you have questions regarding the pleasure craft license, please contact Transport Canada at 1-800-267-6687.
