The National Boating Safety School offers the Transport Canada-approved boating safety course and online exam to get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) in the province of British Columbia. Your boating license is valid across Canada. Get your BC boat license online today and start boating!
British Columbia boat license in 3 simple steps
Our boater safety course includes interactive videos and quizzes to prepare you for the BC boat exam from the comfort of your home. It’s easy to get your boat license in BC by registering, studying the provided materials and taking the official boating exam using a desktop, laptop or smartphone. You can retake the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) exam as many times as you like for free. Satisfaction guaranteed!
Step 1: Study the BC boat course
With interactive quizzes and videos, you can learn everything you need to know to pass your online exam and get your BC boat license.
Step 2: Take the official BC boat exam
With unlimited retries, you can take the official boating exam from Transport Canada after you have studied the course material.
Step 3: Get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC)
While you wait for your Transport Canada-approved Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), you can go boating in BC with your temporary license.
Do you need a boat license in BC?
Yes! British Columbia law requires boaters who operate motorized boats to possess a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, commonly referred to as a British Columbia boat license.
Transport Canada-approved BC boating course
The National Boating Safety School offers the official Transport Canada-approved boating test as part of its role as Canada’s leading provider of boating safety education. Over 2 million Canadians trust our boat license practice tests, which are recognized in all provinces, including British Columbia.
FAQ about the BC boating license
Boating safety courses ensure both your and your passengers’ safety. You will learn about Canadian boating laws and regulations in addition to important navigation rules and what to do if you have a boating accident.
Below we answer some commonly asked questions about boating licenses in British Columbia.
How do I get a boat license in BC?
BC boating licenses, officially known as Pleasure Craft Operator Cards (PCOC), can be obtained online from a Transport Canada-approved provider such as the National Boating Safety School. The process is as simple as registering online, studying our interactive course materials and passing the test (with free unlimited retries).
How much does a BC boat license cost?
Upon registration, you will have to pay a fee of $59.95 CAD to take the official Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Card exam for your BC boat license. After completing our boating safety course, you can take the exam, which includes unlimited retries for free.
The National Boating Safety School also offers group and family discounts:
- 2 People: $49.95 per license
- 3 People: $44.95 per license
- 4 People: $34.95 per license
How long does it take to get a boat license in BC?
Our boater safety course can be completed in approximately 3 to 5 hours. A temporary card can therefore be obtained in a few hours and enables you to begin boating legally in BC. Your permanent Pleasure Craft Operator Card will arrive by mail within a few weeks.
What license is needed to drive a boat in BC?
In BC, all motorized boat operators are legally required to possess a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC).
How difficult is the BC boat exam?
Obtaining your BC boating license is as easy and uncomplicated as possible.
After reviewing all course modules, you must pass the official boating exam. The boating test includes 50 questions and can be completed online within 30 days.
A test score of 75% is required to successfully pass the Transport Canada Boating Safety Test. Those who fail the first time may retake the test after 24 hours.
What is the age requirement for a boat license in BC?
A boating license in BC does not have a minimum age requirement. Boaters of all ages, including those under 16, must have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card. Boaters 16 years of age and under are also subject to certain restrictions.
How do I replace a lost or stolen boat license in BC?
In BC, you can easily obtain a replacement Pleasure Craft Operator Card online through an official provider such as the National Boating Safety School for the following fees:
- 1 card – $24.95 + taxes & shipping
- 2 cards (same name) – $29.95 + taxes & shipping
- 3 cards (same name) – $34.95 + taxes & shipping
Can the BC boat exam be taken on any device?
Yes! The National Boating Safety School course can be accessed from any device, including desktop, laptop, tablet or mobile phone.
Are there any additional resources for the BC boat license?
Please visit the National Boating Safety School blog section for more tips and information about boating safety in BC.
Get your Pleasure Craft Operator Card in BC
The National Boating Safety School provides a simple way to obtain your Pleasure Craft Operator Card in BC. Our boating course is trusted by over 2 million Canadian boaters! Register today and receive your official license in only a few hours.