Regulations
IT'S THE LAW!
The Canadian Coast Guard now requires pleasure boaters to carry proof of competency with them on the water. Proof of competency is the completion of an accredited Safe Boating Course (like the one provided by MTAC Ltd).
Do you have your card? Do you know when your deadline is? See below to find out, or visit our Frequently Asked Questions page.
September 1999
Persons under 16 years of age (born after April 1, 1983) may not operate any motorized recreational vessel* without proof of competency.
(*including personal watercraft)
September 2002
ANY person operating ANY motorized recreational vessel* less than 4m/13ft. must carry proof of competency.
(*including personal watercraft)
September 2009
ALL operators of motorized recreational vessels* must carry proof of competency.
(*including personal watercraft)
EXEMPTIONS
There is NO Grandfather clause. Operator competency applies to all boaters, young and old.
The only exemptions are as follows:
*Proof of previous training (taken prior to April 1, 1999)
*Grace period of 45 days for non-residents of Canada operating foreign vessels without a recognized competency card.
Too many people are killed or injured needlessly every year by inexperienced boaters. Statistically, small boats make up the majority of boating incidents, therefore, boats under 4m (13ft) are the first to be required to obtain proof of competency.