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.
Who needs a boating license in Canada?
All operators of powered recreational watercraft used on Canadian waters must have proof of competency like the boating license. The boating license is mandatory, regardless of age, length of boat or engine horsepower.
Successfully completing our course means that you are certified in all the Canadian provinces and territories including: Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland, Nunavut, Yukon, and Northwest Territories.
