How old do you have to be to drive a boat in Canada? Age Restrictions
What is the minimum age to get the boating license?
There is no minimum age to take the course and exam to obtain the pleasure craft operator card (PCOC). There is no requirement to be a Canadian resident to get your boating license. To operate a pleasure craft for recreational purposes in Canada, completion of a boater safety course and passing the Transport Canada Exam are mandatory.
Age / Horsepower restrictions in Canada
- Under 12 years of age with no direct supervision, a person may operate a boat with up to 7.5 kW (10 hp);
- Ages 12 to under 16 with no direct supervision, a person may operate a boat with up to 30 kW (40 hp);
- Under 16 years of age, regardless of supervision may not operate a PWC;
- 16 years of age or older: no horsepower restrictions
Legal age to drive a PWC (Power Watercraft)
You must be 16 years of age or older to drive a PWC. No horsepower restrictions
These rules apply to: Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Quebec, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Prince Edward Island, and Northwest Territories.
Step 1
STUDY AT YOUR OWN PACE
- Register and do Chapter one for free.
- Pay only $49.95 (online course, final test and the card included).
- Complete an easy-to-read study guide.
Step 2
TAKE THE FINAL TEST
- Transport Canada's official final test.
- Free tests retries - Risk free.
- Open-book final test.
Step 3
PRINT YOUR CERTIFICATE
- Print your temporary card immediately and start boating now! It is valid for 60 days.
- Your official Pleasure Craft Operator Card will be mailed within 30 days.
- The card is good for life.
Group and Family Discounts
More boaters, more savings
Take advantage of our group discounts for family and friends. Register together and get a discount for the online boating course!
Save $
- Pay only $
$
A complete 3-hour course… well organized in 6 chapters
- Study at your pace
- The card is valid for life
- Exam retries are free
