BOATsmart! + Campfire Collective

Campfire Collective helps people have awesome outdoor adventures. We’re on a mission to get you to the water, trail, field and mountain with more confidence. Learn more about our online courses and what we do.

BOATSMART! IS FUELLED BY THE CAMPFIRE COLLECTIVE

BOATING KNOWLEDGE BASE

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BOATING

Select Your Country

Canada

What are the minimum technical requirements to access the Online Test?

The following technical requirements are necessary: 1024 x 768 Screen Resolution Firefox 3.0 or greater Internet Explorer 6.0 or greater Safari 2.0 or greater Google Chrome Javascript Enabled Some pop...

What will I learn in the BOATsmart! Course?

The BOATsmart! Course includes all the knowledge you need in order to obtain your Pleasure Craft Operator Card. Topics include: Canadian Boating Rules and Regulations Properly Equipping Your Craft Ope...

How do I prepare for the exam?

Boaters have three options to prepare for the exam: BOATsmart! Printed Study Guide BOATsmart! Online Safe Boating Course BOATsmart! Classroom Course Each format is recognized and approved by Transport...

Do commercial operators need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card?

Any person who operates a pleasure craft in Canada should participate. The BOATsmart! Safe Boating Program covers all aspects of safe boating and responsible operation on Canadian waterways. Boaters o...

Is there a difference between a Pleasure Craft Operator Card and a Pleasure Craft License?

The Pleasure Craft Operator Card is required for the operator of a boat, whereas a Pleasure Craft License is required for all boats fitted with a engine of 10 HP or more. The original Pleasure Craft L...

Do I need a driver’s license to operate a watercraft?

No – a driver’s license is not required to operate a watercraft. However, you must carry a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, or recognized proof of competency, on board at all times while oper...

Do I need a boating license as well as an Operator Card?

No. Canadian law does not require recreational boaters to obtain a boating license. The only legal requirement for boaters is to carry proof of competency (i.e. Pleasure Craft Operator Card) on board ...

Is there a “Grandfather Clause”?

All operators of power driven boats in Canada are required to obtain an Operator Card. There is no “grandfather” clause or age exemption.

What’s the fine for operating a powered watercraft without your card?

The fine for operating a powered watercraft without a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (or proof of competency) on board is $250.00 plus provincial administrative charges.

When do I need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card?

ALL operators of powered watercraft used for recreational purposes require a Pleasure Craft Operator Card* as of September 15, 2009. There are no exemptions for age, size of boat or engine size. Power...