There’s plenty of open space for power boating and waterskiing in Saskatchewan, making recreational boating one of the provinces most popular pastimes. Catch a prairie breeze in your sails, get adventurous while wakeboarding with friends or chill out, relax and soak up the sun on one of Saskatchewan’s many gorgeous beaches…
But before you hit the water, take a look at our guide to boating in Saskatchewan.
Q: Do I need a boat licence in Saskatchewan?
An educated boater is a safe boater – which is why a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card, commonly known as a boat license, is required in all Canadian provinces including Saskatchewan, when operating motorized vessels. Boaters need to be able to supply a boat license regardless of their age, the size of their boat or engine horsepower. It’s the law. Boat operators in Saskatchewan caught without their card face a minimum $250 fine.
What’s the difference between licensing a boat and getting my boating license?
Licensing your boat, also known as vessel registration, refers to the unique ID number that must be displayed on your boat similar to a cars registration plate. This is not to be confused with your own boat license – or Pleasure Craft Operator Card. To put it simply, a boat needs to have a license, and so does its driver! Learn more about licensing your vessel here.
Q: How long does it take to get my Saskatchewan boat licence?
It takes a minimum of 3-5 hours to complete your boat license course. The Official Transport Canada Pleasure Craft Operator Card exam is available online and can be completed from the comfort of your home. Once you complete your boat license course and pass the test, you will receive your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is approved proof of competency to operate on all Canadian waterways.
Q: What if I don’t pass the Saskatchewan boat license exam?
Boating should be carefree – so do not panic if you don’t pass! One of the great things about getting your boat license is that you can re-take the test free of charge until you successfully complete the course. After passing your exam, you will receive a temporary boat license – allowing you to get out on the water immediately!
Q: What age do I have to be to drive a boat in Saskatchewan?
Many people are surprised to learn that young driver can drive a boat – in fact, some vessels can be safely driven even by those under 12 years of age! However, there are horsepower restrictions to be aware of, limiting the type of boat kids are allowed to drive in order to keep our waterways safe! Remember, if you are going to drive a powerboat, you need a licence – regardless of age. There is no minimum age to obtain your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) in Saskatchewan, but there are supervision requirements and horsepower restrictions for young boat operators. Click here to learn more about the age restrictions for various types of vehicles on the water.
Q: Do I need a licence to drive a jet-ski?
A boat license is legally required for all motorized vehicles on the water – and that includes jet-skis, watercycles and boatercycles! If you are hitting the water on our sea-doo make sure that you are also carrying your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) or boat license on board with you at all times.
Q: Where Is the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) valid?
Your boat license or PCOC is valid in each province of Canada, including Saskatchewan, Ontario, Québec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Manitoba, British Columbia, Prince Edward Island, Alberta and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Q: What is the fine for operating without your card?
Not having your boat license on board with you while driving a motorized boat in Saskatchewan will result in a fine of $250, excluding administrative charges. Click here to learn more about boating fines in Saskatchewan.
Q: Who enforces these laws?
The boating laws and regulations will be enforced by peace officers and Saskatchewan’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). on all Saskatchewan waterways. You can expect to see these officers on the lakes and rivers throughout the province, so make sure the captain of your boat is carrying their Pleasure Craft Operator Card, as well as proof of age, with them at all times – no excuses
Sign up for your boat licence and get out on the water today! If you have a question about boating in Saskatchewan, get in touch!