Operator Card (PCOC)

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List of Certificates of Competency, Training Certificates and other Equivalencies as Proof of Competency when Operating a Pleasure Craft

The Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations require operators of pleasure craft fitted with a motor and used for recreational purposes to have proof of competency on board at all times.

Proof of competency can take 1 of 3 forms:

1. A Pleasure Craft Operator Card;
2. Proof of having successfully completed a boating safety course in Canada prior to April 1, 1999; or,
3. A completed rental-boat safety checklist.

The operator card is good-for-life.

These requirements are being phased in over ten years.

Date at which proof of competency is required *

How this applies to operators** of pleasure craft fitted with a motor and used for recreational purposes:

• All operators born after April 1, 1983, proof of competency required on board by September 15, 1999.
• All operators of craft under 4 m in length, including personal watercraft, proof of competency required on board by September 15, 2002.
• All operators, proof of competency required on board by September 15, 2009.

* These requirements apply in areas outside the Northwest and Nunavut Territories at this time.

** Applies to non-residents operating their pleasure craft in Canadian waters after 44 consecutive days. Operator card or equivalent issued to a non-resident by their state or country will be considered as proof of competency.

If you hold any certificate on the List of Certificates of Competency, Training Certificates and other Equivalencies as Proof of Competency when Operating a Pleasure Craft, you already meet the requirements of the Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations – you just need to make sure you carry your certificate on board. Proof of certification may include original documentation or a copy of the certificate.

Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations