Whether you are buying a new or used boat from a dealer, or are buying one privately, you should make sure that it is properly licensed. A Pleasure Craft License is a number affixed to the side of your boat to help the boat be identified in case of an emergency. The number is similar to a license plate on your car/truck but does not need renewal. The number needs to be shown on the outside of your boat, be clearly visible to others and need to:
- be at least 7.5 centimetres (3 inches) high; and
- in a colour that contrasts with the colour of the bow.
Conversely, a Pleasure Craft Operator Card proves competency in operating a pleasure craft. Every boat operator is required to have an operator's card. Pleasure craft operator licenses can be issued at the qualified marina or online by certified test centres like Boat Smart Exam .
A Pleasure Craft License does not prove ownership of the boat. A copy of the bill of sale proves you own the boat and should also be kept on board at all times. Anyone can register for a pleasure craft license as long as you have proof you own the boat. Applications must be submitted by mail to the pleasure craft licensing center.
Buying a boat? Here's what you need to do.
- You have 90 days to transfer the license on your boat into your name from the time you purchase the boat. In order to transfer your license you need to download a copy of the application form from the Pleasure Craft Licensing website.
- You will need the following things in order to apply: a signed piece of government photo identification and the bill of sale proving you own the boat
- To transfer a used boat you will need the current pleasure craft license numbers on the side of the boat to complete your application.
- To transfer a new boat your boat dealer will have to do it for you. The dealer will need the following documentation from you.
- a copy of your driver’s license
- dealers need a third party authorization form signed to have permission to license the boat for you
- and a bill of sale
If your boat was purchased out of province there are different application processes necessary to register your boat. There are also different application processes for boats that have been constructed at home.
What happens if you are caught without a pleasure craft license? You can be issued a $250 fine! It is important to keep a paper copy of Pleasure Craft License (Copies issued by the Pleasure Craft Licensing Center) and your boater’s license on your boat. If you purchased your boat from our marina we will have a copy on file also. We keep them for a minimum of six years.
If you have any further questions you can contact the Pleasure Craft Licensing Center at 1-800-267-6687, or call email me at any time. 613-272-2581 or mandy@lenscove.com
