Canadian Boat Regulations

Operating a Canadian Boat Regulations and the Licensing Involved

  Canada is the world’s longest coastline and one of the greatest waters worldwide to go boating. Canadian waters do have regulations that you will need to follow. One of these is completing you boating exam. You will need to follow the rules for not only safety for you but the safety of the environment in Canada. There are also restrictions while boating that comes along with speed limits and vessel forbiddance.

  There are many ways to get your Canadian boaters exam done. One simple way that has been formatted is being able to do it online. Quick and easy; all you have to do is study up on your boating knowledge before taking the test! The operator competency requirements require that all people on board have a document or license for proof of age. Also in 2002 a law was passed that all operators of boating vehicles less than four meters in length will require proof of competency. Then, in 2009, they passed a law that no matter the length of the boat you will still need proof of competency. The regulations do not apply to non-residents if the boat is not in waters for 45 consecutive days. Although, you will still need proof of residency on board at all times. There are also horsepower limits for children 16 and under. Children whom are 12 and under and are not supervised while operating the boat can only go up to 10hp. Children between the ages of 12 and 16 and not supervised while operating the boat can only go up to 40hp. There are always safety requirements for anything you do; meaning there’s safety rules for boats too! A boat licensed or registered in a place other than Canada can use their state or countries regulations. Driving under the influence also pertains to boating. You cannot drive a moving vehicle of any sort while impaired. Driving under the influence is against the law in Canada under the Criminal Code. If you choose to drive your boat impaired then the first offense will be at least $600. The second offense will lead to 14 days of imprisonment, and the third will be 90. You may only consume alcohol on your boat if it has sleep courters, cooking facilities, a toilet, and is secure against the dock. Another regulation for being able to drive on Canada’s waters is making sure to keep the water clean! You are not, by all means, allowed to pump sewage into the freshwater lakes.

  Acceptable proof for non-residents are Canadian issued operator card, complete checklist for the safety of a rental boat, or an operator card that meets the requirements of your state or country. There is also a safe boating guide that is available for download on the internet. In order to obtain your Pleasure Craft Operator Card you will need to take the safety course in-person or online. If you want to train or test for this card it is only feasible through the providers of Transport Canada. You very well are able to find one in your area, and once you pass the test at the end of the course you are able to set sail! 

• Jessica Johnson