All boat operators in Canada must have a Boat Operator Card or they risk expensive fines. Write your Boat Exam Boat Licence Tests. There is no minimum age to get certified and no age exemption. The length of the boat does not matter anymore, or the size of the engine. The pleasure craft operating (licence) card is good-for-life and is recognized across Canada.
The Pleasure Craft Operator Card regulations exist to encourage boaters to evaluate their capabilities and limits, to prepare themselves adequately before heading out, and to be responsible on the water.
As of 2006 – all boaters are required to have the Pleasure Craft Operator Card in order to operate a powered watercraft. There is no grandfather clause or age exemption – this law applies to all boaters. Powered watercraft includes watercraft fitted with any size motor — even an electric trolling motor.
Whether you plan on boating in the ocean, the river or in one of BC lakes you will need to hold a boat operators card/ bc boating licence. If you plan on renting a boat in BC we advise you to get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card. I am not aware of what the insurance companies are doing however if you have the pleasure Craft Operator Card and are involved in a claim you as an operator with a licence look a lot more responsible than an operator who boats infrequently, is unlicenced and has completed the minimal rental checklist
If you need the study guide you can download it by ‘right clicking’ on this link BC Boating Study Guide and select ‘save target as’. Write your Boat Exam Boat Licence Tests.
Here is a link if you have a sailboat and would like to obtain a Boat operators card for Sailboats and or Boating Operator Licence’s for USA.