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Operator Competency Requirements for
Pleasure Craft Operator Card

As of September 15, 2009 all operators of any powered craft must carry proof of competency on board their craft at all times.  All youth under 16 years of age require proof of competency to operate motorized boats supervised or not. The regulations also limit the engine power which unsupervised and unaccompanied youth may operate.

Age

Power restrictions
as of April 1, 1999

Under 12 years of age, and not directly supervised** Can operate a vessel with no more than 10 hp (7.5 KW)
Between 12 years and under 16 years of age, and not directly supervised** Can operate a vessel with no more than 40 hp (30 KW)
Under 16 years of age Not allowed to operate a PWC***
16 years of age and over No power restrictions

** Directly supervised means: accompanied and directly supervised by a person 16 years of age or older.

***Personal Watercraft

Regulations also apply to non-residents of Canada and whose pleasure craft is in Canada more than 45 consecutive days. An operator card or equivalent issued to a non-resident by their state or country will be considered as proof of competency.

Note:  Card is good for life. 

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