How to Get a Boat Licence

From 1 October 2006 anyone wishing to sit for a general or PWC licence test must first complete a compulsory boating safety course.

The Boating Safety Course requirements can be met by one of the following:

1. Attending a Boating Safety course conducted by NSW Maritime or the Royal Volunteer Coastal Patrol, Australian Volunteer Coast Guard or Volunteer Rescue Associations. Click here for NSW Maritime venues and dates.
2. By viewing the Boating Safety Course online. Click here to view the course online.
3. By purchasing a DVD/video for viewing at home. Click here to purchase a DVD/video.

After completing the Boating Safety Course the applicant must then satisfactorily complete the knowledge test comprising 40 questions (15 compulsory) for the general boat licence and an additional 15 questions (minimum of 12 correct) for the PWC licence.

An alternative to completing a Boating Safety Course for the requirement to obtain a licence and undertaking the licence test, is to successfully undertake a course conducted by one of the following NSW Maritime accredited RTOs. For details of these courses click on the link below: