Did you know that beginning in 2022, all boat owners in Canada will be required to get a Pleasure Craft License to operate their vessels legally? Ensure to prepare for this immediately to be ready when the time comes. In this article, we’ll talk about why having a Pleasure Craft License is such a crucial prerequisite and the significance of obtaining the license itself. Additional advice on effectively preparing for the licensing process will also be provided. Continue reading if you want to find out more! You must possess a Pleasure Craft License to operate a boat in Canada legally. These are some of the reasons why:
Law requires a Pleasure Craft License
A Pleasure Craft License is required by law to legally operate any boat or other water vehicle at any time. The license cost is $25, but the value it provides to you is priceless. In 2022, licenses will become much more expensive if you wait, so it’s best to get yours as soon as possible. If you already have a license, it’s suitable for 20 years, so there’s no rush to renew it unless you plan to operate a boat in the next 20 years. In that case, you’ll need a new one in 2022.
If you don’t have a license and want to buy one before 2022, you can do so for $25. This price will rise significantly in 2022, so you should be prepared with your license as early as possible. Although getting a license is easy and can be done entirely electronically, many people prefer to go through an official licensing office to walk them through the process and answer any questions about their unique situation.
It Proves That You’re Competent and Safe on The Water
It’s evidence that you’re a skilled and responsible boater. You know how crucial it is to have someone with experience guiding the ship if you’ve ever been in one. A Pleasure Craft License is generally required to operate a boat under 10 meters in length, as evidence that you have been taught and tested. The greater the number of vessels you may lawfully use, the more skilled you become at boating. PWC operators in several states are also required to obtain this license; thus, it isn’t only for boaters. In order to take full advantage of our lakes and beaches’ possibilities, passing this test is a must if you wish to pursue a career as a marine scientist. As a general rule, this will guarantee that your time on the water is as enjoyable and safe as possible. In addition to showing that you know how to operate a boat safely, this card demonstrates that you are also a secure individual.
It Helps Protect Canada’s Waterways.
What’s the point of a pleasure craft licensing system in Canada? Instead, why not have boaters register their vessels? You’ll be able to spot vessels that aren’t following the rules or are in danger of capsizing that way. If the boat sinks or damages another boat or property, the owner of the boat will be held accountable. However, if you look at the numbers from previous years and decades, it’s evident that more has to be done to ensure that our Canadian waterways are protected. One hundred boats have gone down in Ontario in the previous five years, which is much more than typical!
These mishaps have resulted in pollution and, in some instances, fatalities. Furthermore, these events may have been avoided if everyone on board had obtained a pleasure boat license, which assures that they are up to date on legal requirements and safety standards. Even though most people who own pleasure ships have a license, up to 15% of them still operate their vessels without one.
It Could Save You from Costly Fines and Penalties
The following reason is that if you are caught driving without this license, you may have to pay a fee or perhaps be arrested. A Pleasure Craft Operator’s License is obligatory for anybody in Canada who operates a motorboat on public waterways. The government issues this license. That said, even if you own a personal watercraft such as a jet ski or a water scooter, you are still required to acquire this license. Although this may seem to be just another one of those restrictions that do not apply to all boaters, the reality is that it is pretty significant! Having this license guarantees that you are familiar with all of the laws and regulations about your ship’s operation, which might spare you from incurring expensive fines and other penalties.
Having a Pleasure Craft License for your vessel is essential, and you can contact the National Vessel Registry today at +1 (800) 419-9569 for more. When you’re out on the water with your boat, you want to be able to relax and enjoy yourself without having to worry about the safety of your craft. Having the correct documentation will keep you in compliance with federal standards so that nothing comes between you and the fun of being on the water.
