Boat operators must be able to prove competency in the operation of a boat. Acceptable forms of competency are:

• Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC)
• Boat Rental Safety Checklist completed in the name of the renter (operator)
• Proof of completion of a boat operator safety course successfully completed prior to 1999
• Certain specified marine certificates

Commonly referred to as a boating license, a Pleasure Craft Operator Card is not a license at all. It is a plasticized card similar in size to a credit card that is issued from a Transport Canada accredited course provider.

Everyone who operates an engine-powered boat (also known as a vessel or pleasure craft) of any size must have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (or acceptable alternate form of proof of competency) in their possession.

A completed Boat Rental Safety Check List in the name of the operator or another recognized boat safety course certificate that was issued prior to April 1, 1999 are acceptable proof of competency.

You cannot operate a boat that is powered by an engine unless you are in possession of proof of operator competency.

There are several ways to attain a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC). You must pass a Transport Canada Boating Safety Test in order to receive a PCOC. This can only be done through a Transport Canada accredited course provider. Once you feel ready to take the Transport Canada Boating Safety Test, contact an accredited course provider. In order to prepare for the Transport Canada Boating Safety Test you must be familiar with a series of established knowledge statements. You can attend a study course from an accredited course provider, self-study and challenge the Transport Canada Boating Safety Test. The simplest method is to enroll in a CanadaBoatSafety.com online course and take the Transport Canada Boating Safety Test from the comfort of your home or office.

After completion of the course and quizzes, access will be granted to the Transport Canada Boating Safety Test. Once you pass, you will be able to print a temporary PCOC immediately from your computer.

Once you get your PCOC, it is good for life. There are no renewal fees or expiry dates, and it is not graduated by age.

It is highly recommended that you purchase additional cards in case one gets lost or damaged. If you lose your card you can contact CanadaBoatSafety.com and purchase replacements. If you forget who provided your card, Transport Canada will have your information on record for replacement information.

This process can be completed entirely on your own. There is no need to find a supervisor or course proctor for the online process.

CanadaBoatSafety.com is a 100% Canadian company employing Canadians and investing in Canada. We operate out of Ontario and are dedicated to an online educational experience that is convenient, safe and affordable.