Which pleasure craft need a license? – All pleasure craft powered by an engine 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) or more are to have a pleasure craft license, unless they have a vessel registration.
What is a Pleasure Craft License? – a document containing a unique licence number for a pleasure craft.
What is the purpose of the license ? – The Pleasure Craft Licensing system allows Search and Rescue personnel to access the information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the event of an emergency.
What is the cost and how do you obtain a licence? – Free and you can apply to the Pleasure Craft Licensing Centre.
How do you mark your craft with the license number ? – Both sides of the bow ; above the waterline ; in contrast color to the hull ; and the letters and numbers must be block characters at least 7.5 centimeters (3 inches) high
Who is responsible to license the craft ? – The owner.They have up to 90 days from the date of purchase to transfer a pleasure craft licence, during which time you may continue to operate your pleasure craft with the existing licence and a copy of the transfer documents on board.
How long is the license valid ? – 10 years. If there are changes to your name, address, or particulars of your pleasure craft during that period, you must update your licence by applying to the Pleasure Craft Licensing Centre.
Registration
- Transport Canada is responsible for vessel registration, which is a title system for the ownership of boats. Registration is a procedure for documentation of ownership or title. (similar to house mortgage)
- Owners of pleasure craft not required by law to be registered may do so on a voluntary basis