Boat License Quebec: How To Get Yours Before Boating Season

Are you as excited for the launch of boating season as we are? Make sure you have your boating license first! 

A boat license is crucial for meeting legal requirements and being as safe as possible on the waterways. When you want to operate a boat, you must prove that you're competent and understand what to do in an emergency. 

To get a boat license, Quebec has requirements to meet and rules to follow. Here's what you need to know to get licensed before boating season starts.

What Are the Types of Boat Licenses?

The primary type of boat license needed in Quebec is the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), which is the standard document for operating a boat. 

It shows that you've met legal requirements for safety, emergency procedures, navigation, and other details.

Depending on the type and size of the boat, you may also need other licenses or permits, including a sailing permit and any licenses for charters, fishing, or other unique ways you might use your boat. However, the PCOC is the license needed for anyone operating a powered watercraft, including a jet ski.

Requirements for Obtaining a Boating License

Quebec requires you to take a safety course and pass the written exam to obtain a boat license, which qualifies you for your PCOC. 

There are no age restrictions on getting this license, and everyone who operates a boat must have one. The only exception is for someone renting a boat. The rental safety checklist will serve as their license when the boat is rented.

For those who own a boat or will use a friend's or family member's watercraft, a PCOC is required first. Boaters 16 years of age and under will have additional restrictions on what they can do on the waterways, but it's essential to remember that they are not exempt from needing a PCOC. 

You'll Also Need a Boating Safety Course

Boating safety is vital when you're on the water. If your boat has a problem, a passenger experiences a medical issue, or another boat sends a distress call, you must know what to do. 

Taking a safety course will prepare you to be a responsible boater. These courses are easy to take, and you can complete them online or in person.

Many people like to take their boating safety course online because it allows them to complete it in the comfort of their own home, on a schedule that works for them. Of course, you can also take in-person classes if you learn better that way. 

No matter where you take your course, make sure you choose one that's accredited.

Do Free Courses Count?

Some free offerings are available but may not be accredited courses by the Canadian government. Free courses can give you some knowledge but won't qualify you for a PCOC. 

So, before signing up for any boating safety course, look for accreditation. A legitimate, Canada-approved course will provide you with the correct information and plenty of peace of mind while helping you obtain your PCOC.

As you progress through your boating safety course, you'll learn about navigation rules, safety equipment, and emergency procedures so you can have fun on the water and feel confident in your ability to handle your boat and use it responsibly. This will protect you, your passengers, and other boaters you'll encounter.

The Boating License Application Process

Getting your boat license doesn't have to be complicated, especially when you take an online safety course. You can create an account through the online school you're working with, pay your fees, and start the course immediately. 

In just a few minutes, you'll start learning what you need to know to be safe and responsible when boating.

When you're done with the course, you're ready to take the exam. If you don't have time to go through the course in one sitting, that's also fine. You can save your progress and come back to it when you can. 

Once you pass the exam, you can print a temporary PCOC immediately.

Your permanent card will come in the mail and is valid for life, but your temporary card allows you to get out on the water without waiting. 

Just make sure you print it out and take it with you because you must have proof of it anytime you operate a watercraft. 

When taking a safety course through BOATERexam, everything is handled in one place, so you don't need to worry about where to apply for your card after completing your education course and exam. 

Safety Tips for Boating Season

There are some great ways to prepare for boating season. Getting your PCOC is one of them, but you should also follow crucial boating safety tips. 

For example, check your boat and equipment to make sure they're ready and don't need repair before hitting the water. Also, make sure you wear appropriate safety gear on the water (like a well-fitting lifejacket) and verify the weather conditions before you head out.

Get the Boat License Quebec Requires with BOATERexam

Certification through a boating safety course is easy, convenient, and required. It doesn't take long, and you can do it all online. Not only will you be more prepared for anything that can happen on the water, but you'll have the confidence and peace of mind needed to enjoy time spent on the water.

To make sure you're ready for boating season and can hit the water sooner (rather than later), select the Canada-approved course and start learning!