A quick and easy way to get your NS Boating License. Transport Canada approved.

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Do you need a boating license in Nova Scotia?

To navigate the waters of Nova Scotia, a boating license (also known as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card or PCOC) is mandatory. This legal requirement applies to all motorized boats in NS. The Canadian boating license is mandatory across the entire country, for all ages, all types of motorized boats, and all sizes of boat engines.

Do I need a boat license to operate a boat with an electric motor in Nova Scotia?

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.

At what age can I get my boat license in NS?

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.

How hard is the Nova Scotia boating license test?

Navigating the boating safety exam isn't that hard, especially when you're already equipped with all the knowledge! This comprehensive test comprises 50 multiple choice questions. Achieving a passing score of at least 75% (38 out of 50) is well within your reach. Plus, there's no reason to worry because the Boating Safety Test is open book Test, providing you with all the resources you need to succeed!

How long does it take to get a boating license in Canada?

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.

How can I replace a lost or broken boat license?

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".

Is the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (a.k.a. boating license) the same as a Pleasure Craft License or registration?

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 licence 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 much does the boaters license cost in Nova Scotia?

The cost of the boating license online safety course is only $ 59.95 plus taxes. This includes study time, the final Transport Canada exam and mailing of your first boating license.

How long does a Canadian boating license last?

Your boating license (Pleasure Craft Operator Card) is valid for life and never needs to be renewed.

Do I need to have a Nova Scotia driver’s license to get a boat license?

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 in Nova Scotia?

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.

Is the boating license 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 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.

Where to navigate in Nova Scotia?

Nova Scotia is a paradise for boaters, however you like to enjoy the water. With more than 7,600 kilometers of saltwater coastline, boaters can explore the ocean, islands, bays, inlets, coves and lagoons. Meanwhile, inland, Nova Scotia boasts 6,700 lakes and 130 rivers. As a maritime province, boating is not just a pastime in Nova Scotia, it’s a way of life.

The province offers fantastic sightseeing from the water: from the natural wonders of the basalt cliffs, waterfalls and sea caves, to Atlantic wildlife including puffins, seals and even humpback whales!

Whether you enjoy cruising, fishing, watersports, or scuba diving, Nova Scotia is an essential destination for holders of Canada’s Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), commonly known as a “boating license”.

With mild summers and autumns, you have plenty of time to see the lighthouse in Peggy’s Cove, sail on the St. Mary’s River, yacht on Bras d’Or lake, go salmon fishing off Cape Breton, water skiing near Halifax, kayaking in Lunenburg, or whale watching on the Bay of Fundy. You can also take part in the annual summer Mahone Bay Classic Boat Festival, or explore some of the bay’s 365 islands and learn about the mystery of buried treasure on Oak Island.

Can you drink on a boat in Nova Scotia?

Boat passengers can consume alcohol on board a boat in Nova Scotia as long as the boat has a permanent toilet, cooking facilities, and sleeping quarters. In addition, it is important to note that the boat must be securely anchored or docked.  

Put your boating knowledge to the test!