Do You Need a Boating License for a Jet Ski in New Brunswick?
| New Brunswick Jet Ski License — Quick Facts | ||
| What Is It? Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) | Is It the Same as the License for Boats? Yes, the PCOC is the same for PWCs and boats. | How to Get One Take a Transport Canada-approved boater education course |
| Who Needs One Anyone operating a jet ski in New Brunswick without adult supervision | Expiration Never. Good for Life. | |
Do You Need a Boating License for a Jet Ski in New Brunswick?
The short answer is yes. However, Canada doesn't officially use the term "boating license." Instead, they use what's called a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC). This requirement applies to all motorized vessels, including jet skis and other personal watercraft.
While you need this card in New Brunswick, the PCOC is a federal requirement that applies nationwide. Transport Canada has rules on who can boat on the country's waterways, and you can be fined and penalized if you're boating without a license.
What Is a Boating License (PCOC)?
The Pleasure Craft Operator Card is the official term for the Canadian boating license. Earning your PCOC proves that you understand the country's boating safety rules and regulations, as well as vessel safety equipment requirements and emergency procedures.
Your PCOC is issued after you pass a certified exam, and it's recognized across all Canadian provinces. You can boat anywhere in the country once you have it.
What Are the Requirements for Operating a Jet Ski?
To operate a jet ski on Canada's waterways, it's essential to understand the legal requirements. That not only keeps you in compliance but also helps protect other boaters.
| New Brunswick Jet Ski Operating Requirements | |
| Minimum Age | You need to be at least 16 years old to get a Canada boater’s license and operate a jet ski in New Brunswick. Even if an adult supervises you, you still can't be in control of a PWC at any time before your 16th birthday. |
| Proof of Competency | Carry your original PCOC on board with you at all times. Photocopies, screenshots, or digital versions of your Canadian boating license aren't accepted. You could end up with a hefty fine if you leave your card at home. |
| Rental Exception | If you plan to rent a jet ski, you can use the completed and co-signed rental boat safety checklist as proof of competency. Jet skis are considered boats, so this checklist applies to them. Remember, the checklist is only valid for that PWC and the duration of the rental, so you can't use it for other boating adventures. |
Who Needs a PCOC?
If you're asking, "Do you need a boating license for a jet ski in New Brunswick?" the answer is yes, no matter what. You need a PCOC if you're operating a motorized boat or jet ski, whether you're a resident or a visitor.
There is one exception: If you're visiting and have a boater education card from a US state with Canadian reciprocity, you can use your existing card as proof of competency.
Canada takes safe boating seriously, so there are no exemptions based on age or experience.
How to Get a Boating License in New Brunswick (PCOC)
Getting certified is a simple process. You'll need to take a course and pass an exam offered by a Transport Canada-accredited provider, such as BOATERexam.
| How to Get an New Brunswick PCOC (Step-by-Step): |
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Cost and Validity
The cost of a boating license in Canada generally ranges from $30 to $70 CAD. When taking the course through BOATERexam, you'll pay $54.95.
Once you earn your PCOC, it's valid for life, and there's no need to renew it.
Fines and Enforcement in New Brunswick
Operating a PCOC without a license can result in a minimum fine of $250. Additionally, you need to license your vessel properly.
Aside from your PCOC, any jet ski with an engine that's 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) or more needs to have a Pleasure Craft License (PCL).
The PCL should be displayed on the bow of your vessel. Additionally, due to new Pleasure Craft License requirements, effective December 31, 2025, you must renew your license every five years. The renewal fee is $24.
Why Having a Boating License Matters
There are several good reasons to get your boating license in New Brunswick, including protecting yourself and others. Of course, you’ll also want to stay on the right side of the law, so you don't end up with fines or other legal issues.
Here are a few good reasons to get your PCOC before launching on a jet ski this season:
- Safety: One of the main reasons for getting a PCOC is to reduce accidents and injuries. Learning how to safely launch your jet ski, as well as how to use and retrieve it, protects you and those around you.
- Legal Compliance: Additionally, your PCOC helps you avoid fines and penalties that can sour a great day on the water.
- Confidence: Get on the water with more confidence in your understanding of navigation rules, hazards, and responsibilities as you explore the area's beauty.
- Environmental Awareness: Earning your PCOC promotes the responsible use of Canada's waterways.
Get Your New Brunswick Boating License Before Riding a Jet Ski This Season
Before heading out on your jet ski, take time to get your PCOC through us at BOATERexam. It's simple and affordable, and it provides a lifetime certification. Enjoy the country's waterways with confidence for the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Alberta Jet Ski License (FAQs)
We’ve got answers to some of the most common questions about jet ski licenses in New Brunswick.
Q: Do you need a license to drive a Sea-Doo in New Brunswick?
A: Yes. A Sea-Doo is considered a personal watercraft (PWC), so operators in New Brunswick must carry proof of competency, most commonly a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC). This requirement applies to motorized recreational vessels across Canada.
Q: What happens if you drive a jet ski without a license?
A: If you're operating a jet ski without an accepted form of proof of competency, you can face a fine of at least $250. Law enforcement officers may ask to see your PCOC or another approved document while you're on the water.
Q: How to get a license to ride a jet ski?
A: To get a Canadian boating license (or PCOC), you'll need to complete a boating safety course through a Transport Canada-accredited provider like BOATERexam and pass the required exam. Once you pass, you'll receive your card as proof of competency for operating motorized recreational vessels, including jet skis.
Q: How long is a boater's license good for?
A: A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) doesn’t expire. Once you've earned your PCOC, it’s valid for life and can be used anywhere in Canada as proof of competency.
