F.A.Q.

Age restrictions for operating a pleasure craft vary based on the operator's age and the horsepower of the boat. 

These age restrictions do not apply in the Nunavut and Northwest Territories.

If the Operator is Under 12: 

Operators under 12 who are unsupervised (not under the guidance of someone at least 16 years old) can only operate pleasure crafts powered by motors of up to 10 horsepower (7.5 kW).

If the Operator is 12 to 15: 

Operators aged 12 to 15, without direct supervision from someone 16 or older, may operate pleasure crafts with motors up to 40 horsepower (30 kW).

If the Operator is 16 or Older: 

Once an individual reaches 16, they can operate any pleasure craft without horsepower limitations. Additionally, only operators 16 and older may operate a personal watercraft (PWC) without supervision.

No matter the age of the operator, all operators are required to carry a pleasure craft licence while operating the boat. 

Use this link to apply for a pleasure craft licence. 


Pleasure Craft Licence Laws and Others 
At the National Vessel Registry Center Corp., we assist vessel owners across various backgrounds in registering their vessels and obtaining pleasure craft licenses. Additionally, we provide documentation resources for selling licensed or registered vessels, conducting vessel information checks, and fulfilling other needs.

The laws below may be relevant to your circumstances:

Interpretation

1 The following definitions apply in these Regulations.

electrical propulsion means a mode of propulsion provided by a main propelling machinery that is an electric motor powered by electric cells. (propulsion électrique)

engine power means the engine power, in kilowatts, calculated in accordance with International Standard ISO 8665, Small Craft — Marine Propulsion Engines and Systems — Power Measurements and Declarations, second edition, August 1, 1994. (puissance motrice)

local authority means a government of a municipality, township, parish, county or regional district, any other government constituted under the laws of a province or territory, or a department of a provincial or territorial government or of the federal government. (administration locale)

Minister means the Minister of Transport. (ministre)

personal watercraft means a water-jet driven vessel with an enclosed hull and no cockpit that is designed to be used by one or more persons who are straddling, sitting, standing or kneeling. (motomarine)

power-driven means a mode of propulsion provided by a main propelling machinery that is an internal combustion engine or a steam engine. (propulsion mécanique)

provincial authority means a department of the government of a province designated by that government to process requests to impose restrictions on the operation of vessels in respect of waters within that province. (autorité provinciale)

rivers and lakes includes all those waters of any river upstream of a line between the most seaward extremities of the shore of the river at high tide but does not include the waters of the St. Lawrence River east of 70°53′ W longitude. (fleuves, rivières et lacs)

Restrictions

Operation of Vessels

2 (1) No person shall operate a vessel in any of the waters described in Schedule 1, except as indicated in that Schedule.
(2) No person shall operate a power-driven vessel or a vessel driven by electrical propulsion in any of the waters described in Schedule 2, except as indicated in that Schedule.
(3) No person shall operate a power-driven vessel or a vessel driven by electrical propulsion that has an aggregate maximum power greater than 7.5 kW in any of the waters described in Schedule 3, except as indicated in that Schedule.
(4) No person shall operate a power-driven vessel or a vessel driven by electrical propulsion that has an engine power greater than the maximum engine power set out in column 4 of Schedule 4 in the waters described in columns 1 to 3 of that Schedule.
(5) No person shall operate a power-driven vessel or a vessel driven by electrical propulsion in the waters described in columns 1 to 3 of Schedule 6 in excess of the maximum speed set out in column 4 of that Schedule, except as indicated in that Schedule.
(6) No person shall operate a power-driven vessel or a vessel driven by electrical propulsion in the waters described in Schedule 7 for the purpose of towing a person on water skis or on any other sporting or recreational equipment, except during the permitted hours set out in that Schedule.
(6.1) No person shall operate a power-driven vessel or a vessel driven by electrical propulsion in the waters described in Schedule 7.1 for the purpose of allowing a person to wake surf, except during the permitted hours set out in that Schedule.
(7) No person shall operate a power-driven vessel or a vessel driven by electrical propulsion at a speed in excess of 10 km/h within 30 m of the shore in the following waters:

(a) the waters of Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta;
(b) the rivers and lakes in British Columbia;
(c) Nitinat River and Nitinat Lake, upstream of Nitinat Bar, in British Columbia;
(d) the rivers and lakes in Nova Scotia; and
(e) Bras d’Or Lake in Nova Scotia, inland of a line drawn between Coffin Point and Red Head in Great Bras d’Or Channel and the inland end of St. Peters Canal.


(8) Subsection (7) does not apply

(a) in respect of a vessel that is operated for the purpose of towing a person on water skis or on any other sporting or recreational equipment, if the vessel follows a course away from and perpendicular to the shore; and
(b) in respect of a vessel, if the vessel is operated

(i) in rivers that are less than 100 m in width or in canals or buoyed channels, or
(ii) in any waters referred to in Schedule 6 in respect of which a maximum speed is set out.




(9) Subsections (5) and (7) do not apply to a vessel that is required to comply with another speed limit established under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 or the Canada Marine Act.


SOR/2010-34, s. 1
SOR/2017-124, s. 1
SOR/2020-252, s. 1
SOR/2022-175, s. 1
SOR/2023-274, s. 1

 

3 (1) Subsections 2(1) to (4) do not apply to

(a) a person who occupies a waterfront property that is not accessible by road and operates a vessel solely for the purpose of gaining access to that property;
(b) a person who holds a provincial or federal fishing permit and whose livelihood depends on fishing; or
(c) a person who is operating a vessel for the purpose of exercising a right recognized and affirmed by section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982.


(2) Subsections 2(1) to (5) and (7) do not apply to

(a) an enforcement officer acting within the scope of their duties;
(b) an employee or agent or mandatary of Her Majesty in right of Canada or a province, or of a county, municipality or regional district, acting within the scope of their duties;
(c) a person rescuing someone or preventing damage to property; or
(d) a person who operates a safety boat for surveillance, rendering assistance and lifeguarding within the scope of regular activities carried out by a recreational institution or a teaching or racing organization established under provincial, federal or foreign laws.



4 If a local authority seeks, in respect of certain waters, the imposition of a restriction that is of the same nature as a restriction imposed by any of subsections 2(1) to (6.1) and 11(2), the local authority shall undertake public consultations with parties that would be affected by the proposed restriction and submit to the provincial authority in the province for which the restriction is proposed, or to the Minister if no provincial authority exists, a request together with a report that includes

(a) the location of the waters and the nature of the proposed restriction;
(b) information regarding the public consultations held, including a description of the groups and parties consulted;
(c) particulars on the implementation and enforcement of the proposed restriction; and
(d) any other information that is necessary to justify regulatory intervention.


SOR/2010-34, s. 2
SOR/2014-210, s. 1
SOR/2018-204, s. 1

Age Restrictions

18 Sections 19 to 21 apply in respect of a pleasure craft that is operated in Canadian waters, other than in the waters of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.

SOR/2017-124, s. 7

19 No person who is under 12 years of age shall operate, and no person shall allow a person who is under 12 years of age to operate, a pleasure craft, other than a personal watercraft, propelled by a motor with an engine power greater than 7.5 kW, unless the person is accompanied and directly supervised in the pleasure craft by a person who is 16 years of age or older.

SOR/2015-123, s. 6(F)

20 No person who is under 16 years of age shall operate, and no person shall allow a person who is under 16 years of age to operate, a pleasure craft, other than a personal watercraft, propelled by a motor with an engine power greater than 30 kW, unless the person is accompanied and directly supervised in the pleasure craft by a person who is 16 years of age or older.

SOR/2015-123, s. 6(F)

21 No person who is under 16 years of age shall operate, and no person shall allow a person who is under 16 years of age to operate, a personal watercraft.

Signs

5 No person shall place a sign anywhere for the purpose of restricting the operation of any vessel in Canadian waters unless

(a) the placement has been authorized by the Minister under subsection 6(1) and, except in the case of a sign that provides information with respect to a restriction referred to in subsection 2(7) or section 14, the sign meets the requirements set out in the standard entitled Signage Requirements and Recommendations — Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations, published by the Department of Transport, as amended from time to time; or
(b) the placement is authorized under an Act of Parliament other than the Canada Shipping Act, 2001.


6 (1) The Minister may authorize in writing any person or class of persons to place a sign in an area for the purpose of indicating that a restriction on the operation of vessels has been imposed by any of subsections 2(1) to (6.1) and 11(2).
(2) The person who places the sign shall

(a) bear all costs of construction, placing, maintenance and removal; and
(b) maintain the sign, while the sign is in place, in the form required by the standard entitled Signage Requirements and Recommendations — Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations, published by the Department of Transport, as amended from time to time.


(3) If a restriction in any of the schedules is removed, the Minister shall cancel the authorization and inform the person of the cancellation.
(4) On being so informed by the Minister, the person who placed the sign shall immediately remove it as well as any support erected for it.


SOR/2010-34, s. 3
SOR/2014-210, s. 2

 7 A person who is informed by the Minister that the person has placed an unauthorized sign shall remove it immediately.

8 [Repealed, SOR/2023-274, s. 6]

 9 [Repealed, SOR/2023-274, s. 6]

 10 No person shall

(a) remove any authorized sign unless the authorization has been cancelled;
(b) alter, conceal, damage or destroy any authorized sign; or
(c) use any authorized sign or any support erected for it as a mooring.

If you have any further questions about if you’re able to use a vessel how you would like or to learn more about pleasure craft licencing, please reach out.  We can provide information about licencing, registration, and more for your vessel.

There is no need to register your vessel if it carries less than 12 passengers, and it is:

a commercially operating human-powered vessel like a kayak or a canoe,

a small motor-powered vessel with motors under 7.5 kW (10 horsepower).

a small sailing vessel not exceeding 8.5 meters

You Can Replace a Lost Certificate of Registry 

In fact, if you plan on using your vessel, you must do so be in compliance with the authorities. You need to carry a valid Certificate of Registry on board. You must get a new one if your certificate has been lost, or even stolen, destroyed, and mutilated. 

You can apply for a Replacement Canadian Certificate of Registry on our website.

Vessel documentation refers to the formal process of registering a watercraft with a government authority, typically the maritime or coast guard agency of a particular country. This process involves obtaining legal proof of ownership and securing a unique identification for the vessel. The objective is to ensure that a vessel is recognized as a legal entity, which is crucial for various purposes, including navigation, commerce, and compliance with maritime regulations.

As a boat owner here in Canada, you are probably familiar with the importance of having your boat registration in order. This is why, should anything change in regards to a vessel’s ownership, it needs to be reflected on the official Transport Canada registry. Because of this, there are going to be situations in which you might have to submit the form for a transfer of registration. Let’s take a closer look at the process to transfer boat registration in Canada. 
Transfer Boat Registration in Canada
Part of the process to transfer ownership will depend on exactly what kind of transfer you are carrying out. After all, there are a few different ways in which you might end up approaching this matter. Because of this, it can quickly get very confusing, which is why we are here to break down the overall process for you. This way, you will be able to take care of your transfer of registration without issue.
Transferring the Registration Entirely
The most common form of transfer of registration will obviously be the sale of a vessel. In cases such as these, you are transferring the full extent of a registration to someone else as part of a transaction. After all, if you are selling the vessel, the registration needs to be updated accordingly to reflect this change. You will have to submit the transfer form, which will essentially formalize the purchase and grant the new owner the claim over the vessel. Pretty straightforward, right? It is! You will mostly just have to provide information about the vessel itself, as well as the contact information for the new owner so that the registration can be put to their name.
Partial Transfers of Ownership
Of course, not all transfers of ownership will be full. Some of them will be partial. For example, you might have joint ownership over the vessel with a partner and, because of some reason, either owner needs to be removed from the registration. Or, the other way around, you might be adding a person to the registration. Either way, you need to request a partial transfer of ownership from Transport Canada to update the registry accordingly. You still need to submit the transfer of ownership form and provide the same information. Just remember to submit it as a partial transfer of ownership rather than as a full one. This way, the registration will reflect the new ownership arrangement going forward.


Submit Forms to Transport Canada
It’s common knowledge that engaging with government agencies can often be quite frustrating, especially when it comes to transportation. Transferring your boat registration, be it fully or partially, for example, can be a very inconvenient process, which is why we make an effort to make it easier for you. Here at the Canadian Vessel Registry Center, you will be able to find all the forms you might need in relation to your vessel. 

A Canadian Certificate of Registry (Certificate of Documentation) is Valid for 5 Years

You can only authenticate your certificate of registry once your vessel is marked. This certificate remains valid for a period of 5 years. Operating an unregistered or unlicensed vessel might attract a penalty. On the other hand, a pleasure craft license has a validity of 10 years. Renewals and applications for these can be managed on our website by eligible vessel owners.

Apply for Transcripts and Historical Research 
Through this, interested parties can learn about vessels from as far back as 1904.  The information will come from the Ship Registration Computer System if the vessel was registered in 1984 or after. 

If the vessel was from between 1984 and 1904, then the information will come from microfilm. 

Use this link to apply for transcripts and historical research. 
Laws Regarding the History of Canada Boat Documentation and More 
The National Vessel Registry Center Corp. has worked with vessel owners to register vessels and secure pleasure craft licenses. We also offer essential forms for those looking to sell their licensed or registered vessels, gather vessel details, and handle other necessary documentation.

The following laws may apply to you and your vessel:

Registration, Listing and Recording

Interpretation

Definition of Minister

41 In this Part, Minister means the Minister of Transport.

Canadian Register of Vessels and Registrars

Marginal note:

Appointment of Chief Registrar

42 An officer, to be known as the Chief Registrar, is to be appointed or deployed under the Public Service Employment Act.

Marginal note:

Duties and powers of Chief Registrar

43 (1) The Chief Registrar is responsible for establishing and maintaining a register to be known as the Canadian Register of Vessels. The Chief Registrar is to divide the Register into parts, including a small vessel register, for the classes of vessels that the Chief Registrar specifies.
Marginal note:
Records
(2) The Register is to contain records of the information and documents specified by the Chief Registrar in respect of a Canadian vessel or a fleet that is registered under this Part, including its description, its official number, the name and address of its owner and, in the case of a vessel that is not registered in the small vessel register, details of all mortgages registered in respect of it.


2001, c. 26, s. 43
2011, c. 15, s. 38

 Marginal note:

Registrars

44 (1) The Chief Registrar may appoint the registrars that the Chief Registrar considers necessary.
Marginal note:
Duties of registrars
(2) A registrar is to perform the duties and fulfill the responsibilities that the Chief Registrar assigns to the registrar.

Marginal note:

Immunity

45 The Chief Registrar and the registrars are not personally liable for anything they do or omit to do in good faith under this Act.

Registration, Listing and Recording

Marginal note:

Mandatory registration of vessels

46 (1) Unless it is exempted under the regulations, a vessel must be registered under this Part if it

(a) is not a pleasure craft;
(b) is wholly owned by qualified persons; and
(c) is not registered, listed or otherwise recorded in a foreign state.


Marginal note:
Owner’s obligation
(2) Every owner of a vessel that is required by subsection (1) to be registered under this Part shall ensure that it is so registered.
Marginal note:
Mandatory registration — government vessels
(3) Every government vessel must be registered under this Part.


2001, c. 26, s. 46
2011, c. 15, s. 39

 Marginal note:

Optional registration

47 Unless they are registered, listed or otherwise recorded in a foreign state, the following vessels may be registered under this Part:

(a) a pleasure craft that is wholly owned by qualified persons;
(a.1) a vessel that is exempted under the regulations from the registration requirement in subsection 46(1) and that is wholly owned by qualified persons;
(b) a vessel that is owned by a corporation incorporated under the laws of a foreign state if one of the following is acting with respect to all matters relating to the vessel, namely,

(i) a subsidiary of the corporation incorporated under the laws of Canada or a province,
(ii) an employee or a director in Canada of a branch office of the corporation that is carrying on business in Canada, or
(iii) a ship management company incorporated under the laws of Canada or a province; and


(c) a vessel that is in the exclusive possession of a qualified person under a financing agreement under which the person will acquire ownership on completion of the agreement.


2001, c. 26, s. 47
2011, c. 15, s. 40

 Marginal note:

Bare-boat chartered vessels

48 A vessel that is registered in a foreign state and that is bare-boat chartered exclusively to a qualified person may be listed under this Part as a bare-boat chartered vessel for the duration of the charter if, for the duration of the charter, the registration is suspended in respect of the right to fly the flag of that state.

Marginal note:

Vessels under construction

49 A vessel that is about to be built or that is under construction in Canada may be temporarily recorded in the Register as a vessel being built in Canada.

Marginal note:

Vessels built outside Canada

50 Notwithstanding sections 46 to 48, the Minister may direct the Chief Registrar to refuse to register or list a vessel built outside Canada.

Application



Marginal note:

Application

51 (1) An application for the registration, listing or recording of a vessel must be made in the form and manner, include the information and be accompanied by the documents specified by the Chief Registrar.
Marginal note:
Further evidence
(2) In addition to the specified information and documents, the Chief Registrar may require an applicant to provide evidence, including declarations, that the Chief Registrar considers necessary to establish that a vessel is required or entitled to be registered or is entitled to be listed or recorded.

Names of Vessels

Marginal note:

Before registration or listing

52 (1) Every vessel, other than one to be registered in the small vessel register, must be named in the form and manner specified by the Chief Registrar before it is registered or listed.
Marginal note:
Approval of names
(2) The Chief Registrar may, on application, approve the name of a vessel before it is registered or listed and approve a change in the name of a Canadian vessel.
Marginal note:
Disallowance of names
(3) The Chief Registrar must disallow a name if

(a) it is the same as the name of a Canadian vessel;
(b) it is likely, in the opinion of the Chief Registrar, to be confused with the name of a Canadian vessel or with a distress signal;
(c) it is likely, in the opinion of the Chief Registrar, to be offensive to members of the public; or
(d) its use is prohibited under an Act of Parliament.


Marginal note:
Requiring renaming
(4) The Minister may order that a Canadian vessel be renamed if the Minister considers that its name would prejudice the international reputation of Canada.

Ownership of Vessels

Marginal note:

Shares

53 (1) For the purposes of registration, the property in a vessel is divided into 64 shares.
Marginal note:
Registered owners
(2) Subject to subsections (3) and (4), only owners or joint owners of a vessel or of one or more shares in a vessel may be registered in the Register as owners of the vessel or shares, as the case may be.
Marginal note:
Registered owners — financing agreements
(3) In the case of a vessel described in paragraph 47(c) (a vessel subject to a financing agreement), the persons referred to in that paragraph are to be registered in the Register as the owners of the vessel.
Marginal note:
Bare-boat charterers
(4) In the case of a vessel described in section 48 (a bare-boat chartered vessel), no person may be registered in the Register as an owner of the vessel.
Marginal note:
Registration of joint owners
(5) No more than five persons may be registered in the Register as joint owners of a vessel or a share in a vessel.
Marginal note:
Disposition of registered joint interests
(6) A registered jointly owned interest in a vessel or a share in a vessel may be disposed of only by the joint owners acting together.
Marginal note:
Registration of fractions prohibited
(7) No person may be registered as the owner of a fractional part of a share in a vessel.
Marginal note:
No effect on beneficial owners
(8) This section does not affect the beneficial interests of a person represented by or claiming through an owner of a vessel or a share in a vessel.
Marginal note:
Trusts not recognized
(9) No notice of a trust may be entered in the Register.

Certificates

Marginal note:

Certificates of registry

54 (1) If the Chief Registrar is satisfied that all of the requirements of registration or listing have been met with respect to a vessel, the Chief Registrar must register or list the vessel, as the case may be, in the Register and issue a certificate of registry.
Marginal note:
Information
(2) Every certificate of registry in respect of a vessel must contain the information specified by the Chief Registrar, including

(a) its description;
(b) its official number; and
(c) the name and address of

(i) in the case of a vessel described in paragraph 47(b) (a vessel owned by a foreign corporation), the authorized representative,
(ii) in the case of a vessel described in section 48 (a bare-boat chartered vessel), the bare-boat charterer, and
(iii) in any other case, its owner and the authorized representative.




Marginal note:
Period of validity
(3) Every certificate of registry is valid for the period specified by the Chief Registrar.

Marginal note:

Provisional certificates

55 (1) The Chief Registrar may, on application, issue a provisional certificate in respect of a vessel that is required or entitled to be registered under this Part if

(a) the vessel is in a foreign port and a person intends to register it under this Part; or
(b) the vessel is in a port in Canada and the Chief Registrar is satisfied that permission to operate the vessel should be granted before a certificate of registry can be issued.


Marginal note:
Issuance
(2) The Chief Registrar may, on application, issue a provisional certificate in respect of a vessel that is not required or entitled to be registered under this Part if the Chief Registrar is satisfied that the vessel needs to undergo sea trials.
Marginal note:
Validity
(3) A provisional certificate is valid for the purpose and the period specified by the Chief Registrar.
Marginal note:
Application
(4) An application for a provisional certificate must be made in the form and manner, include the information and be accompanied by the documents specified by the Chief Registrar.

Marginal note:

Lost certificates

56 If a certificate of registry or provisional certificate is mislaid, lost or destroyed, the Chief Registrar must issue a replacement certificate of registry or provisional certificate, as the case may be, on application made by the authorized representative or owner in the form and manner and including the information and accompanied by the documents specified by the Chief Registrar.

2001, c. 26, s. 56
2023, c. 26, s. 366

 

Marginal note:

Refusal to issue, renew or amend certificate

56.1 Despite any other provision of this Act, the Chief Registrar may refuse to issue, in respect of a vessel, a certificate of registry, a provisional certificate or a replacement certificate of registry or provisional certificate, or to renew a certificate of registry or to amend one under paragraph 73(b), if the applicant for, or holder of, the certificate is in default of payment of a required fee, charge, cost or expense under this Act or the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act in respect of that vessel.

2023, c. 26, s. 366

Marking

Marginal note:

Marking

57 (1) The authorized representative of a Canadian vessel shall, in the form and manner specified by the Chief Registrar, mark the vessel with its official number and any other information that the Chief Registrar specifies.
Marginal note:
Validity of certificate of registry
(2) A vessel’s certificate of registry is not valid until the vessel has been marked in accordance with subsection (1).
Marginal note:
Maintenance of markings
(3) The authorized representative shall ensure that the vessel is kept marked.
Marginal note:
Defacing, etc., markings
(4) No person shall wilfully deface, alter, conceal or remove the markings of a Canadian vessel.

Notifying Chief Registrar

Marginal note:

Notification of changes

58 (1) The authorized representative of a Canadian vessel shall notify the Chief Registrar within 30 days after any of the following occurs:

(a) the vessel is lost, wrecked or removed from service;
(b) there has been a change in the owner’s, the authorized representative’s or a registered mortgagee’s name or address;
(c) the information provided with the application under section 51 has changed; or
(d) in the case of a vessel described in section 48 (a bare-boat chartered vessel),

(i) the right to fly the flag of the foreign state is reinstated, or
(ii) the charterer ceases to have complete control and possession of the vessel.




Marginal note:
Notification of alterations
(2) If a Canadian vessel is altered to the extent that it no longer corresponds with its description or particulars set out on the certificate of registry, the authorized representative shall, within 30 days after the alteration, notify the Chief Registrar and provide the Chief Registrar with the relevant information and documents.
Marginal note:
Notification of changes
(3) If for any reason a Canadian vessel does not have an authorized representative, its owner shall

(a) notify the Chief Registrar of that fact as soon as possible in the circumstances; and
(b) notify the Chief Registrar within 30 days after any event referred to in subsection (1) or (2) occurs.


Marginal note:
Notification of completion of construction
(4) Within 30 days after completion of the construction of a vessel that is recorded as being built in Canada, the person in whose name the vessel is recorded shall notify the Chief Registrar of that fact and of the name and address of its owner.


2001, c. 26, s. 58
2011, c. 15, s. 41(F)

Registration is a title system for vessel ownership. It is similar to land title registry. Registration allows for name approval and mortgage registration except in the case of a vessel registered in the Small Vessel Register. Vessels under construction: A vessel that is about to be built or that is under construction in Canada may be temporarily recorded in the Register as a vessel being built in Canada. While not required by law, pleasure craft owners may choose to register their vessels.

Certain vessels are required to be registered. 

 

These include commercial vessels with a gross tonnage of 15 or more that are powered by engines with total 7.5 kW/10 horsepower or more. This includes barges that meet those requirements as well. 

Getting your boating license in Ontario is one of the most crucial stages you need to assess before you may buy a boat. If you want to legally operate a boat on the water, whether it's for a fishing trip, a vacation, or simply a way to connect with your friends and family, it's vital that you have this permission to do so.

If you don't have it, you won't be able to operate a boat lawfully. You may get your boating license in as little as one day if you live in Ontario, thanks to the reforms that have made the procedure much easier. The necessary paperwork and a little time are the only things preventing you from entering the ocean. Here are five tips on How to Get a Boat License in Ontario:
Find an Ontario Course near You
In Ontario, whether you want to go sailing, fishing, or enjoy the water, you may acquire a boat license in a few different ways. Getting your boating education in Ontario begins with locating a local course. These training centers may be found online, and you can search for them in various ways, including by city, county, or province. You may also look for a qualified teacher on the Canadian Safe Boating Council's website.

 Passing the final exam is the only prerequisite to graduating from one of these courses. There are other methods to earn your boating license in Ontario if you are interested but do not live near any classes. Boat Ed Canada, an online Ontario boating safety course, is one option if you need help finding a local system. Those who need to get their boating license but need easy access to classes in their area might take advantage of these online options.
Sign Up For the Course
Although this is a significant undertaking, the province of Ontario has made it simpler than others by offering a two-day training. On the first day, you'll learn the fundamentals of boating etiquette in a classroom setting, with time set out for questions and discussion. The next day, you'll go out on the lake with your teacher, who will be watching you and giving you feedback as you handle a variety of scenarios.

These seminars may initially seem intimidating if you've never had a boating license. You will soon learn all the terms, standing orders, scenarios, and coast guard laws; after that, it's only a question of learning everything in context while maintaining your attention on safe navigation.

This is more than a memorization exercise; all of the material presented here is relevant to maritime scenarios. After the first day, you'll have learned all you need to know to successfully navigate any situation that may arise while you're out on the water.

 
Take the Written Test for You to Get a Boating License in Ontario
Everyone who has taken the time to become a licensed driver will tell you that the written exam is the most challenging aspect of the ordeal. It's easy to see why; it's simple to make a mistake while trying to read a succession of lines on paper and determine what kind of sign they represent. There's no room for errors when real streets, stop signs, and traffic lights are involved. Driving on land and water follows very similar guidelines.

Things like waves, currents, other boaters' wakes, buoys, markers, and more will all get in the way of your safe passage around Lake Ontario. A boating course is helpful, but it's easy to forget what you learned in a classroom setting when you're out on the open water. 


Get Your Certificate
There are several factors to consider before setting sail, including the safety of your boat, whether you're planning on doing activities like water skiing, boating over to the island, or simply taking a leisurely cruise. Do you have a valid license? If you want to go boating on the lakes and rivers of Ontario, you'll need to know the answers to these questions. It is legal to operate a motorized watercraft in a navigable body of water after first obtaining a marine certificate.

There's a reason there are boating regulations — it's for everyone's safety. The Canadian Restricted Operator License (CROL) program is where you'll need to start if you want to get your maritime certification. With the help of a responsible adult, anybody between the ages of 12 and 18 may apply for this certificate. If you are 18 or older, you may use only your passport or driver's license number.

When you're ready to take the next step in your boating career, we'd love to help. At the National Vessel Registry Center, our goal is to make getting your boat license efficient and enjoyable. Contact us today by sending us an email or filling out our contact form.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Vessel name and Port of Registry vessel marking requirements differ depending on where your vessel is registered.

A vessel's name is important. Often, it's very important to the vessel owner. Sure, there are owners who just name their vessel the first thing that comes to mind or something they heard that name, but usually it's something that a person has thought about for a long time. The name can have a deep, personal meaning, it can be a funny joke, or it can be anything in between. However, over time, you may want to change the name of your vessel. Perhaps you named it after someone who is no longer in your life, or you just got tired of it. Your reasons are your own. Below, we'll cover how to change the name of your boat as well as how we can help.
How to Change Your Boat Name
The process of changing the name of your vessel may be complicated in terms of what you want the new name of your vessel to be, but the process is not complicated in terms of what our site can do. Simply go to our site and click on "Registry Forms." Then, scroll down to "Change of Vessel Name and/or Transfer of Port of Registry." One thing you will note about this is that your vessel already has to be registered. If your vessel isn't registered, then you have to register your vessel in the first place. In that instance, you would click on "Registry Forms" and then go down to "First Time Registration."
The Specifics and the Price
You do have to click that you want to change the vessel name, and you also have to list the details of each individual owner. This is true even if the owner is a corporation, as you have to put that as well. The total cost of the Change of Vessel Name application is $375.00 CAD. The barrier for changing your vessel name is low, so you can change it when you want. It's one more way that the system is responsive to vessel owners' needs.


Ports of Registry
You'll notice that this form covers more than just changing the name of your vessel. A "Port of Registry" is the port where the vessel is registered to. It doesn't have to be the vessel's home port, but it often is. That just makes things tidier. However, as we've seen, things change. Maybe you have to move one port for another. Perhaps you have to move for your job, and there's a port that's so much closer to where your life is now. This form can help you to move the port of registry for your vessel.
Specific Ports of Registry
There are actually only a few, limited options that you can choose from for your port of registry. Ports of registry can be found in Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario, Quebec, Newfoundland-and-Labrador, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Nunavut, British Columbia, Alberta, Yukon Territory and the Northwest Territories. That's it. Now, some of those locations do have multiple ports of registry to choose from. Find the one that's right for your vessel and mark it on the form.

At our site, we make it easier to send in forms than ever before. So many vessel owners know what it's like to send in a form that they need only to have it sent back to them, not because anything was wrong with the form exactly, but rather because there were little typos or even handwriting issues with the form. From there, the vessel owner had to start all over again, getting increasingly frustrated as more time wasted.

That doesn't have to happen anymore. In fact, we've done everything we can to make that a thing of the past. When you send your forms through us, our professional document processors take a look at them. If there's anything even slightly off about the form, we'll correct it before it goes to the proper authorities. That way, it won't get sent back to you and thus eat up more time. We see it as one more way that we can make our service easier to use.

Another way we make our service easier to use is by making it more secure. When you go through our site, we have some of the top security in the industry backing our site. So, you never have to worry about someone stealing your information or something like that. You can send info through our site with confidence. 

Using your vessel for commercial purposes means that you will have to make sure that the ship works at its best for the safety of the passengers and the crew. You need to know that your vessel is seaworthy, yes, but there are also a few more steps you should take if you plan to have a ship as a part of your business. Whether you are working as a commercial fishing boat, a vessel that transports passengers, or a cargo or shipping vessel, Canadian law asks you to register the ship with the federal government. This article will then explain how to get a commercial boat license in just a few steps.  
Small Vessel Registration or the Canadian Register of Vessels?
If you have a boat in Canada you will need to either get a Pleasure Craft License or have your boat registered. Boats used for commercial purposes, however, don’t have the chance of deciding: they need to be registered. There are two different types of registration that can be obtained: Small Vessel Registration and the Canadian Register of Vessels.

The first one is designed for commercial ships with an engine of 10 HP or more or for commercial river crafts. If your boat is over 15 gross tons, however, you need to go to the Canadian Register of Vessels to get the license. The same applies if your boat carries a marine mortgage. In fact, knowing the different types of commercial boat licenses in advance can help you to fill out the proper application the first time, avoiding you from incurring potential delays.
What Information you Need for your Commercial Boat License
If you are new to the boating industry, it is time for you to learn that the boat registration process can sometimes be a bit cumbersome. If you have experience in the matter, you will know that what we are saying is true. There are some requirements you need to comply with to get the commercial boat license, such as being a Canadian citizen with the corresponding proof of identity, as well as supplying documentation to support your application like a bill of sale or a picture of your vessel.

Once this has been settled, you must fill out the forms and submit everything along with your payment to Transport Canada. Any mistakes can delay your application, so make sure the information you are submitting is correct.


The National Vessel Registry Center can Get the Documentation for You
Luckily for you, it doesn’t have to be this way. The National Vessel Registry Center is a third-party agency that allows you to register your boat faster and more efficiently. Our platform lets you get your commercial boat license, and pretty much any other boat documentation fully online while keeping your information secure on our SSL-encrypted website. Furthermore, having someone overlooking your documentation can prevent you from committing any mistakes. You don’t have to struggle with forms and waiting times when you need registration to get your business started. Come to us and use the best way to register your vessel!

Discovering an abandoned vessel presents a unique opportunity but also a complex challenge, particularly when it comes to legal registration without clear ownership. The Canadian waters, rich with maritime history, occasionally yield such finds, leading to potential boons for the diligent. In this guide by the National Vessel Registry Center, we demystify the process, so you can claim and register a boat in Canada under your name, ensuring you sail through the paperwork with ease.

Initial Steps with a Found Vessel
Upon finding an abandoned boat, your first port of call should be the Transport Canada registry. This database holds records for vessels registered after 1984, providing crucial details about ownership and claims. It's important to note that this registry does not cover vessels under the pleasure craft license system, which requires a different approach.

Navigating Registration Without Ownership
The pathway to registering a found boat hinges on the absence of a recorded owner or explicit relinquishment of ownership. Should the database reveal an owner, efforts must be made to contact them before proceeding. It's critical to ensure the vessel hasn’t been reported lost or stolen, as such circumstances would necessitate its return rather than a new registration.

Integrating Authoritative Statistics and Information
The intricacies of boat registration in Canada are underscored by the country's expansive maritime domain. According to Transport Canada's latest data, there are over 2 million recreational boats in Canada, yet a significant number remain unregistered or unidentified due to abandonment or loss. This situation not only presents opportunities for new ownership but also emphasizes the importance of a thorough and legal registration process. Successfully navigating this process contributes to clearer waterways and ownership records, enhancing safety and enjoyment for the entire boating community.

Expert Tips for Seamless Paperwork
Accurate documentation is the keel of the registration process. Gather as much information about the vessel as possible, and meticulously fill out the designated form for registering a found boat. Cross-verify your application to preempt any errors, aiming to streamline approval and minimize additional fees or delays.

Register a Boat in Canada and More With Us
The Canadian Vessel Registry offers expert guidance on how to register a boat in Canada with unknown ownership. Let our team of expert reps navigate you through the bureaucratic waves and into clear sailing.
Contact us now to chart your course toward successful registration.

Whether you're using your boat for pleasure or commerce, you most likely have to register or licence it.

If you own a boat in Canada, there is a reasonable probability that you may be required to change the name of your boat at some time in the future. This article will follow you through the steps necessary to change the name of your boat in Canada. Whether you've just purchased a new boat or have chosen to change the name for another reason, this guide will be helpful. We will discuss everything, from the necessary documentation to the process of notifying Transport Canada of the change in your status. But what if you find that your opinion changes at a later time? The following are some suggestions for changing the name of your yacht.

It's exciting to start a fishing trip but also to sell your boat to someone else who wants to go on an adventure. But before any of this, you should not forget to get the British Columbia BC bill of sale for your boat. This paper is your formal record, your watertight guarantee, and your defense against any unlikely but possible disagreements. This important piece of paper is a formal contract between the buyer and the seller. It spells out the terms and conditions of the sale.

The BC bill of sale for a boat is more than just a piece of paper. It shows who owns the property and keeps track of the details of the deal. This could include the state of the boat, how much it costs to buy, and who the buyer and seller are. In short, the bill of sale is the anchor that holds your deal together and gives you peace of mind so that you can sail more smoothly.
The Boating Wonders of British Columbia
British Columbia is a boater's dream because it has so many things to do. From sailing along the beautiful coast of the Pacific to exploring the many beautiful lakes, there are lots of exciting things to do. BC's waterscape is a beautiful place to play. It is full of lively sea life and lovely coastal towns.

BC is a place that never stops surprising people, whether they want to sail at sunset, do water sports that give them a rush, or go fishing. In fact, having your own boat here is a ticket to a lot of amazing things. Just remember that meeting all legal requirements, like having a BC boat bill of sale, is important if you want these trips to be fun and worry-free.

BC has everything. Every area is different. Some are great for skiing or relaxing, while others are great for fishing or watching whales. Whether you cruise, sail, or paddle, there is something for everyone.
The Pleasures of Paperless Boating Permits
We understand that paperwork isn't the most fun part of fishing. That's where our platform, which is easy to use, comes in. You can get all the fishing permits you need here, whether you live in British Columbia or any other state in Canada. And it's not just about the bill of sale for a BC boat. Need a license for a boat for fun? We'll take care of you too.

Our online and safe platform makes paperwork easier by putting all the forms, permits, and other papers you need right in your hands. We are a third-party organization that can help you get any kind of boat paper, like your Bill of Sale, Transport Canada Pleasure Craft License, or other paperwork. The best part is that you can do it all on our online portal, even from the comfort of your home. 

The bill of sale will then serve as evidence that the boat has been transferred from the hands of one individual to those of another, and the new owner will need it in order to register or license his vessel.
How to Avoid Any Trouble with Transport Canada For A Smooth Sailing
Usually, Transport Canada is in charge of making rules about fishing licenses. Even though their work is important for making sure safety and compliance with the law are taken care of, it can be hard to deal with them directly. It can be hard to keep up with all the paperwork, and the thought of sending papers through the mail can be scary and time-consuming for many sailors.

Thankfully, we can help with that. You can handle all of your boating licenses through our online SSL-secured portal. You don't have to send mail or deal with back-and-forth conversations. Getting a BC boat bill of sale and other permits is as easy as a calm sea on a clear day with our help.

Enjoying The  Simple Pleasures of Online Boat Permitting
By using our online platform, you'll have more time to do what's really important: enjoy the open oceans. With us, getting a BC bill of sale for a boat is easy, quick, and safe. Also, the process doesn't end with the bill of sale. Our platform is your one-stop shop for all fishing permits, so you can stay on the right side of the law and have the most fun possible while boating.

Now you know, the world of boating rules doesn't have to be hard or boring to figure out. It's easy to do everything through our online platform. We're here to make your fishing experience stress-free, from getting the all-important BC boat bill of sale to getting a pleasure craft license. So sit back, relax, and let us take care of the paperwork while you plan your next trip on the beautiful waters of BC.

There are a lot of details involved when buying and selling a vessel. Some of these details are unnoticed and may delay the transactions. The security restrictions have brought in more requirements that need to be fulfilled. There is more information that you need to fill up such as a Form 6 Bill of Sale when purchasing a vessel. There are now many forms that you need to fill in and submit for consideration. 

 
1. Recognition for Your Vessel
Providing a bill of sale is one of the most important requirements. Getting the Canadian vessel documentation, is important information that the authorities demand. The documentation is significant as it has international recognition. It is a national registration for marine vessels and has a legal recognition that is applicable in many places. It is important documentation when you have a commercial boat that will sail through international waters.
2. Documentation for a New Owner
The previous owner should provide you with the documentation if they already have Canadian vessel documentation. This will be used to get your own proper documentation. The documentation cannot be transferred, therefore, you will go through the application process on your own. Therefore, you will need to file the required paperwork. A bill of sale is needed to prove that you are the rightful owner of the vessel. If you don't have a bill of sale, they will not allow you to complete the registration.  
3. Agency
The documentation process can be challenging and exhaustive to most people. It can be not very clear to arrange all the documents including a Canadian bill of sale. To avoid running short when filing documentation, consider getting an agent. There are some agencies that deal with Canadian Vessel Registration. They will be in a better position to submit all the required documents. This saves time as there are no delays. This will prevent you from resubmitting the documents. This can also cause delays and extra fees. The good side is that the application can be made online.
4. Form 6 Bill of Sale
When buying a vessel, there are many details that you need to pay attention to. This is especially true when it comes to buying a large boat. There are now more restrictions and the government's needs for information. This has arisen due to tighter security measures that are now in place. The bill of sale boat form helps you to properly document the transaction. It assists you to file the documents properly. You can only complete your sale if you have this form. The lack of this form will prevent you from getting your vessel into the water. The authorities will not allow you to complete the registration in your name without it.  Have more questions? Reach out. 

Abandoned boats in Ontario sit in a bit of administrative limbo. That is until someone finds it. Here’s what you can do if you happen to find an abandoned boat with no ownership in Ontario.
Boat With No Ownership in Ontario
So, did you find a boat with no ownership in Ontario? Would you like to find out if it has an owner to reach out to? Or do you want to see if you’d be able to claim it as yours? Well, either way, there is a very specific process to follow. Let’s take a look at it.


Consult a Boat’s Ownership Status
If you want to claim a boat with no ownership for yourself, you will first need to confirm whether the vessel is actually without ownership or not. This means that you’ll need to consult with Transport Canada about whether or not there are official ownership claims over the vessel. The best way to do this is to request historical research on a vessel. This process will provide information from the Ship Registration Computer System Database from 1984 to the present, or from microfilm if the vessel was registered prior to 1984. In order to do so, the process will require the official number or the vessel name in order to carry out the consultation. This process is for registered vessels only, and it won’t include vessels licensed under the Pleasure Craft Licensing system. You can easily take care of this request here through our platform.
Dealing With the Unowned Boat
After you have consulted the registry to find out about the boat’s ownership status, you will have to figure out what you’re going to do with it. If you find out that it is indeed registered under an official owner, you have the option of trying to reach them. By definition, a boat with no ownership in Ontario is one that has been relinquished, left, or given up by the lawful owner without the intention to later resume any right or interest in the vessel. This means that should you find a boat with no ownership, it has been relinquished to a certain degree by its owner. Of course, this abandoned boat might be a boat that has been lost or stolen, so reaching out to the registered owner is always a good idea. There will be another situation that you might need to take into account, though.
Consult and Join the Registry
The process of registering a vessel in Canada can be somewhat confusing or intimidating, but only if you’re doing it on your own. With the help of the National Vessel Registry Center, the registration and licensing processes for boats, as well as other similar paperwork and applications, will be all that much easier. Regardless of what you need to submit to Transport Canada, you will find everything you need to do so here on our website. And not only that, but you will also be able to fill them out and submit them directly through the platform. And should you have any questions at some point or need help with anything, you can always contact us through our number or our site.

Do you wish to maintain good status with Transport Canada as a Canadian vessel owner? Maybe you need to provide evidence of ownership when selling your yacht. This post will teach you how to quickly verify your Canadian watercraft's ownership, whatever the reason. Have there been times when you were out on your boat and wondered whether you were legally authorized to do something? Perhaps you have sailed in Canadian waters and were curious about the rules. 

Here in this essay, we'll go through the several ways you might demonstrate your rightful possession of a Canadian watercraft. We'll go through the many forms you need and the best practices for maintaining their currency. Read on if you're interested in learning more about proof of ownership! The best ways to safeguard and conveniently access your evidence of ownership are outlined below.
Keep Your Registration In A Safe Place - Preferably Somewhere Waterproof!
Various storage options are available to ensure the security of your evidence of ownership. You could, for instance, store it in a container that is waterproof and resistant to fire, or you might tie it with a chain attached to a metal ring. If, on the other hand, you want something more conventional and convenient to take with you at all times, then you should consider purchasing a waterproof wallet. They are available in various forms and dimensions; thus, choose the one that best meets your requirements. Store it in a waterproof location, such as a tackle box or the bottom of a cooler. You don't want to take the chance of losing this essential piece of paperwork if your Canadian vessel capsizes!
Make Sure You Always Have a Copy of Your Registration On the Board 
You should always ensure you have a copy of your registration on board your operating vessel. You must be able to provide evidence of ownership in a timely way if, for some reason, you are ever required to do so. You won't be held back from going back on the water if you do it this way. This may be used as evidence of ownership if someone ever wants to demonstrate that they are the rightful owner of the boat. This is vital if you ever need rescue or if you ever need to verify ownership of the Canadian vessel if it is involved in an accident. It is also vital because, if your boat is ever lost at sea, it will assist in ensuring that any insurance claims are paid out correctly.
Carry Your Papers with You When You Take Your Canadian Vessel Out for A Sail
Take your boat out for a spin, but don't forget to bring the paperwork that proves you're the rightful owner. The registration papers are legitimate legal documents that would be required to be shown to a law enforcement officer if you were stopped by them while on the water. Having the original registration documents on you makes it easier for authorities to contact the owner of the boat that is damaged and washes up on land. 

This will allow you some breathing room to get in touch with a lawyer before the yacht is either repossessed or auctioned off. Keep your registration out of the back of the filing cabinet or the bottom of the desk drawer. Many potential purchasers will only buy a Canadian vessel if they can see the original paperwork and any extras that came with it. If the person you plan on leasing your boat to needs a license, providing them with a copy of yours will make the process much smoother.


Update Your Insurance Information As Soon As It Changes
Knowing where to store and how to access your Canadian vessel registration certificate is essential. Keeping your registration current is one of the greatest ways to prove ownership. Things like updating your insurance details and registering your yacht with the National Vessel Registry Center are examples of what this category encompasses. Keep the certificate handy if you need to provide evidence of ownership, such as if you are stopped at a border and asked for it. When entering Ontario from the United States or another province, you may be requested to provide evidence of ownership. You may be asked for proof if you want to rent a slip at a marina or stay overnight at someone's house where a boat is moored in the backyard.

If you're a Canadian citizen planning to take your boat abroad, you must show ownership. It's crucial to know which papers to bring if stopped by law police while proving ownership.