Supriya Ghosh (Editor)

Pleasure Craft Operator Card

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The Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is a document used in Canada as proof of competency to operate a recreational boat with a motor. It is required for any craft fitted with a motor, even if the motor is not in use, for example an auxiliary motor on a sailboat.

It has been required since 1999. Regulations are currently defined under Canadian maritime law by the Canada Shipping Act, 2001.

It is not required for non-powered pleasure craft. It is not required in Nunavut and Northwest Territories. Nor is it required by certain aboriginals and non-residents.

The PCOC can be obtained by taking a Transport Canada accredited boating safety course, then passing a test. Curriculum includes:

  • nautical terms
  • safety equipment and procedures
  • Canadian buoys
  • sharing the waterways
  • regulations
  • emergencies
  • Canada Shipping Act, 2001: An act respecting shipping and navigation in Canada.

    • References

    Pleasure Craft Operator Card Wikipedia
    (Text) CC BY-SA