PABI’s
Boat Operator Card Manual
In
order to operate a pleasure craft fitted with a motor
– or any type of motorboat used for recreational purposes
– you will need proof of operator competency, or a
"Boat Operator Card." The Federal Government
is currently working on phasing in this requirement.
The time frames are:
-
All
operators born after April 1, 1983 ----Now,(came in effect September 15, 1999)
-
All
operators whose craft are under 4m. (13.1 feet)
in length, including personal watercraft----------------Now (came in effect September
15, 2002)
-
All
operators --------------------------------------September
15, 2009
Although
the Boat Operator Card requirements are currently
being phased in, certain restrictions concerning age
and horsepower became effective April 1st, 1999.
Under
12 years of age and not directly supervised** Can operate
a vessel with no more than 10hp.
Between
12 years of age and under 16 years of age, and not directly
supervised** Can operate a vessel with no more than
40hp.
16
years of age and over No power restrictions
**
Directly supervised means accompanied and directly
supervised by a person who is 16 years of age or older.
Persons under 16 years of age may operate a motorboat
outside their allowed limits if they have proof of
operator competency (their Boat Operator Card), and
are accompanied and directly supervised.
The
person providing this supervision must be 16 years
of age or older, in the boat at all times, and not
engaged in other activities (such as keeping watch
on a water skier).
These
restrictions also prohibit persons under the age of
16 from operating personal watercraft (PWC), regardless
of whether they are accompanied by an adult or not.
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