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Drive a Boat Canada is a Transport Canada approved Canadian provider of the official boating safety course, test and licence.
A boater licence is mandatory if you want to operate a motorized vessel on Canadian waters. Sign up to get your official Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) in Nova Scotia!
You need to get certified to operate a motorized boat of any size in Nova Scotia. This certification is called a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC). Although many people call it a licence, it is actually an official proof of competency required under Canadian federal law. A Nova Scotia driver’s licence does not qualify you to drive a boat.
Over 2 million Canadians have trusted Drive a Boat Canada’s Transport Canada-accredited online boating course. Since 1999, we have delivered a top-tier boating safety course for residents of Nova Scotia. We’ll help you get fully prepared for safe, legal and enjoyable boating.
Take the online course, pass the exam, and get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card!
Unbeatable group discounts! Pay once and get lifetime access.
If you have lost your licence, you can get a replacement boater card from Drive A Boat Canada. You can also purchase additional cards as a backup. You will need to provide your name, date of birth and shipping address, and pay a fee. You may also need proof that you previously held a PCOC.
Anyone operating a powered watercraft in Nova Scotia must have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) or other proof of competency. This applies regardless of age, boat size, or engine power, including electric trolling motors.
A Pleasure Craft Operator Card and a boating licence are the same thing in Canada. Pleasure Craft Operator Card is the official term, but many boaters simply call their certification a boating licence, boater card or PCOC.
There is no minimum age to obtain a PCOC. However, there are horsepower restrictions for operators under 16 years old:
Your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is valid for life and will never expire. Once you get your card, remember to stay aware of local boating safety regulations and activity-specific certifications. A PCOC does not allow you to operate a commercial vessel.
Failing to carry proof of competency while operating a powered vessel can result in a $250 fine
Yes, tourists to Nova Scotia can take an approved course and obtain a PCOC. Alternatively, they can use proof of competency from their home country if it meets Canadian standards.
Yes, operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol is illegal and treated similarly to impaired driving on roads. Alcohol may only be consumed on boats equipped with sleeping quarters, a kitchen, and a bathroom, and only when anchored.
No, you do not need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) to operate non-motorized boats in Nova Scotia.
You do not need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) to go fishing in Nova Scotia if you are using a non-motorized boat. However, if you are operating a motorized boat, regardless of engine size or type, you are required by law to have a PCOC on board while fishing. Note that there are other laws surrounding fishing, which are listed on the Government of Nova Scotia website.
Drive a Boat Canada offers a fun and efficient way to obtain your Pleasure Craft Operator Card in Nova Scotia. Millions of Canadian boaters have been certified with us. Sign up today and get your official boating licence in just a few hours!
