Many people come to us at the National Vessel Registry Center Corp asking about how to register a pleasure boat in Alberta. However, they don’t realize that they are asking the wrong question.
How to Register a Pleasure Boat in Alberta
The first thing that we need to clear up is that you don’t actually register pleasure boats, at least not in Canada. You can, but you don’t have to. However, you do have to get a pleasure craft licence for them. But, then again, not always. Only pleasure boats that are powered by an engine of 10 horsepower (7.5 kw) or more need to be licensed. If your boat fits this description and it’s not used for any non-recreational purposes (such as operating for profit, research, or passenger transportation), then you will want to get a licence for it. Let’s take a closer look at what this process usually entails. This way, you will be able to get through it easily.
Pleasure Craft Licensing
A pleasure craft license is a document with a unique identifying number for a vessel, specifically, well, a pleasure craft. This allows you to have a distinct number attached to your vessel in order to properly identify it in situations such as searches and rescues. Thanks to this, the qualifying personnel will be able to find and access relevant information in a quick and prompt manner. While similar to the registration process that is mandatory for commercial vessels, the application process for a pleasure craft licence is actually simpler and easier to approach. If you head over to the corresponding form on our menu, it will only take you a few minutes to fill out the application form.
Receiving a Transferred License
So, the pleasure craft license is tied to the ownership. In that case, what happens when you are buying a boat that is already licensed in Alberta? Well, the previous owner will have to submit a form for a transfer of license. This process is very simple, but it will call for them to fill out and submit the form. Once this process is taken care of, you will not have to get a pleasure craft licence for the boat. Instead, you are receiving the old one, which will now be tied to your name. Make sure you discuss this process with the previous owner of the boat so that you can take care of it accordingly.
National Vessel Registry Center Corp
We understand that no one likes having to file paperwork, which is why we’ve made an effort to make it easier for everyone. Here on our website, you will be able to find all the forms you might need as part of the pleasure boat licensing process for your convenience. And not only will you be able to fill them out here, but you can also submit them. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us by calling +1 (800) 419-9569 or email us at info@canadianvesselregistry.ca.
