Who Needs a Sask Boat License?
Boating safety is essential no matter where you are, and following the regulations set out by your local area is a big part of enjoying your time on the water while also reducing any risk.
For example, if you're in Saskatchewan, you might wonder whether you need a Sask boat license to operate your vessel on area waterways.
Before you head out on your boat, you must have the proper licensing and safety training, making it easier to have an enjoyable time with plenty of peace of mind. There are a lot of safe boating tips to learn, but once you have the knowledge and licensing you need, you can focus on just having fun.
Here's what you need to know!
Who Needs a Boat License in Saskatchewan?
Like other areas of Canada, Saskatchewan requires a license to operate a motorized boat. That means you need a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) to drive your vessel.
There are age and supervision requirements for boating in the province, too, and you'll want to know what those are before heading out on the water. Being informed can help ensure you aren't breaking any rules.
For example, children under 12 can't operate a boat with a motor larger than 10hp. Additionally, boat operators with a motor up to 40hp must be at least 12 years of age to operate that boat without supervision.
However, operators between 12 and 15 can still use motorized boats. They need to be supervised by an adult who has a valid PCOC.
Additionally, to operate a personal watercraft like a jet ski, you must be at least 16 years old.
How to Obtain a Sask Boat License
The fastest and easiest way to get a Sask boat license is to take a boater education and safety course approved by Transport Canada. You can choose from online and in-person options like BOATERexam.
The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions, and you need to score 75% or higher to pass.
If you're unsuccessful on your first exam try, you can retake it after 24 hours. However, if you don't pass it on your second try, you'll be required to retake the course before attempting to retake the test. This process ensures you understand the rules and regulations before getting on the water.
To get your PCOC, you'll need to pass the exam at the end of the course. Once you do that, your card is valid for life. You won't have to worry about retesting later or renewing it before it expires.
Just make sure to carry it with you anytime you're operating a boat or supervising a child acting as an operator.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Boat License?
A boat license has many benefits, including all the safety knowledge you'll gain from the learning process required to qualify for the license.
Understanding boating safety, navigation rules, and emergency procedures is extremely important to keep yourself and other boaters safe. A boating course earns you a license but helps teach you everything you need to know to be a safe boat operator.
Legal Compliance
Legal compliance is another reason to get a boat license.
You need a PCOC to avoid fines and penalties when operating a motorized boat. You don't want to get into trouble with the law, which could result in not being allowed to drive your boat or PWC (personal watercraft)
Plus, being properly licensed means you have the confidence to boat safely and have more fun on the water.
Potential Insurance Savings
There are also insurance benefits to having a PCOC because proper licensing may help reduce the cost of your boat insurance.
Checking with your insurance company can help determine how much you might save, but don't let that affect whether you choose to get licensed. A PCOC is essential whether or not it saves you money on insurance.
Special Considerations for Licensing
Visitors and non-residents are special cases when operating a boat in Saskatchewan. They don't need the same kind of Sask boat license as residents, but safety requirements remain.
If you visit the area and want to rent a boat, you'll need to complete a boat rental safety checklist before heading out on the water. You may also need a temporary license that shows you understand the local regulations for safe boating.
Even though you don't have to get a PCOC to rent a boat, it's still a good idea to ensure you have the safety knowledge you need for adventures on the water.
Non-Motorized Vessels
If you have a non-motorized vessel like a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard, a PCOC isn't required.
However, that doesn't mean you can't (or shouldn't) get one!
You'll still learn valuable information covering safety when operating kayaks, paddleboards, and more. Plus, boating safety basics like choosing the right lifejacket and what to do if someone goes overboard apply to all vessels — motorized or otherwise.
Get Licensed Before Hitting the Water in Saskatchewan
Before getting out on the waterways in Saskatchewan this season, take the time to get your boating license. Not only will you have plenty of good knowledge from taking the safety course, but you'll also gain confidence to help make you a better boater.
BOATERexam makes it easy to get your Sask boating license! Our online courses are engaging, with videos and visuals to make it easy to retain information for passing the exam and staying safe on the water.
It's easy to get started! Sign up for the Saskatchewan course through BOATERexam and get started.
