Operator Card

In certain cases, to operate a motorized pleasure craft in Canada, a Pleasure Craft Operating Card is required. Regulations regarding competency, which are gradually being phased in by Transport Canada (Canadian Coast Guard), starting with those aged 16 or under, outline specific conditions for obtaining this proof of competency.

Non-residents of Canada and whose pleasure craft is in Canada less than 45 consecutive days do not need to show such proof of competency.

Charterers without an official proof of competency will need to complete a rental boat safety checklist before boarding.

How do I get a card?

As a sailing school certified by and member of the Quebec Sailing Federation (QSF) and the Canadian Yachting Association (CYA), NAVTOURS and its certified instructors are qualified to administer the written exam where a mark of at least 75% is necessary to obtain an operators card.

The course covers the basic principles of marine safety, including:

• A review of the basic rules and regulations governing bodies of water;

• Minimum equipment requirements for your boat;

• The Canadian buoy system;

• How to respond in an emergency situation.

How much does this card cost?

The theoretical course lasting a few hours, the written exam and the issuing of the card cost $95 per person, including taxes.

If you already know the rules, you may take the maritime knowledge exam. However, Transport Canada highly recommends taking appropriate training. Boating may look simple but there is a lot to learn! So if possible, get the appropriate training and obtain your operating card.

Cost for the written exam only (with no training course) and issuing of the card is $30 per person, taxes included. You can always obtain a training manual on sale at NAVTOURS, study it on your own, and take the test.  You can also review the content of the Nautical Security Guide published by the Canadian Coast Guard and distributed free of charge to prepare for your exam.

All participants in NAVTOURS Sailing School programs are invited to take the theoretical exam.  To resume, in addition to exams required to obtain elementary, intermediate or advanced CYA certificates, a specific exam by the Canadian Coast Guard is required to obtain your operator card. 

Written exams can be administered upon request at our Montreal office or elsewhere for groups.

INFORMATION AND RESERVATION