Boating is an activity that everyone deserves to enjoy. People of all backgrounds and ages can find something to appreciate about being out on the water on a beautiful sunny day. In truth, however, brand-new boats can be expensive, and not every family has it in their budget to make such a purchase. With this in mind, know that Canada has a thriving secondary market for boats, and for those looking for a well-maintained previously owned vessel, there are certainly bargains to be had. If you are in the market to purchase a boat for the first time, and it happens to be used, you are probably going to want to learn how to transfer a boat title. Just like buying a used car, there is going to be some paperwork involved in such a transaction. Fortunately, at the National Vessel Registry Center, we are a private service that can help you do this online.
Understandably, if you are closing a deal on a boat, you are eager to get out on the waves and start making memories with your loved ones. After all, you have worked hard to save money for a boat, and you had to scour digital and print listings to find just the right vessel for you. Then you and the seller negotiated a fair price, some money changed hands, and you found yourself holding the keys to your new boat. While you are very close to being able to leave the dock, you will need to make sure that your documentation with Transport Canada is up to par.
How to Transfer a Boat Title with a Pleasure Craft License
If you are new to boating, you may be a bit confused about the differences between boat and boating licenses. You can hardly be blamed–they do sound remarkably similar. A boating license, officially called a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), is a document you can think of as akin to a driver’s license. A PCOC demonstrates that you have a basic competency to operate a motorized vessel, and it is required for most engine-powered boats. You can get your PCOC by passing a basic exam, usually after taking a brief educational course. A PCOC is free to acquire from Transport Canada.
A boat license or Pleasure Craft License (PCL) serves as more of a registration for your boat. Your PCL assigns the registration number that must be displayed in three-inch letters on both sides of your boat’s bow. These numbers should also be in contrasting colors from your boat’s paint job. In Canada, any vessel with an engine of 10 or more horsepower will require a PCL.
When you purchase a boat with a PCL, it must be transferred over to you. This is done by signing the back of the document and submitting it to Transport Canada along with a bill of sale.
Transferring a PCL Online
At the National Vessel Registry Center, we make it easy to transfer your PCL online. Simply select the appropriate drop-down from our easy-to-read navigation and you will be brought to a streamlined web form. To learn more about our services and how we can help you get back out on the water, contact us by email or phone today.
