Pleasure Craft Operators Card (PCOC)

Who needs one?
Operators of "boats" (pleasure craft fitted with a motor and used for recreational purposes) require a PCOC* if they are:

Born after April 1, 1983.
Operating a boat or PWC under 4 metres (13.1').
Operating a boat after September 15, 2009.
Age restrictions:

No one under 16 years can operate a personal watercraft (PWCs).
Age restrictions: Operators under 12 without supervision* are restricted to 10 hp (7.5kw). Operators 12-16 years of age without supervision* are restricted to 40 hp (30kw).
* Supervision is by someone 16 or older.

The Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations require operators (as noted above) of pleasure craft fitted with a motor and used for recreational purposes to have proof of competency on board at all times (Federal Dept. of Fisheries and Oceans 1999). The Northwest and Nunavut Territories are exempt at this time. Non-residents and visitors who stay over 45 days must show competency. The Regulations are being phased in over a ten year period. By September 15, 2009, all boaters will have to carry proof of competency to operate a boat.

Proof of Competency:
* Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) will be the most common way boaters will prove competency. The PCOC can be obtained from a "federally approved agency". You take a boating safety course, pass a short test, then pay a fee for your PCOC. You have to pass 27 outof 36 multiple choice questions about boating regulations, dealing with marine emergencies, operating a boat, and terminology. The card is good for life - unlike a license, it cannot be taken away. You can study on your own, take classroom instruction (highly recommended), or "challenge" the exam from one of these agencies. Boating Safety Accredited Courses are authorized by the federal Office of Boating Safety to private companies.

Boat Rental:
Rental operators will be given a dockside test to replace the requirement for a PCOC.

Visiting or non-resident boaters will be exempt if their stay is shorter than 45 days. Operator card issued by your state or country will be considered as proof of competency. (All 16 U.S. states along the Canadian border either have mandatory boater education programs in place or being phased in.)

If you passed a boating safety course (CPS boating course, CYA safety course, etc.) before April 1, 1999, the course certificate or card will be recognized as proof of competency. Call your training organization or simply request a proper operator card from them. (CPS Basic Boating course graduates can receive a PCOC after filling out a simple form. Carry your proof of passing the course until your card arrives.