So You Want to Be a Captain? Age Ain't Nothing But a Number (Unless You're Talking Horsepower, Baby!)
Ever dreamt of cruising the calm waters of Ontario, the wind in your hair (or, if you're like me, desperately clinging to a baseball cap to avoid a major windblown disaster)? Well, then you're going to need a boating license, also known as the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC). But before you channel your inner Captain Picard and boldly go where no man (or woman, or child) has gone before, there's a question that might be burning a hole in your pocket (or life jacket, if you're being super prepared): How old do I have to be to get a boating license in Ontario?
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| How Old Do You Have To Be To Get A Boating License In Ontario |
Buckle Up, Buttercup, Because Here Comes the Answer! (Spoiler Alert: It's Not What You Think)
Unlike driving a car (sorry teenagers, we've all been there), there's no minimum age requirement to get your boating license in Ontario! That's right, even a toddler with a serious love of gummy sharks and a surprising grasp of nautical terminology could technically obtain a PCOC. However, before you start envisioning adorable little Susie piloting a yacht across the Atlantic (parental supervision highly recommended, folks), there are some age and horsepower restrictions to consider.
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Hold on Tight, It's Time for a Little Age Check!
16 and Under: Congratulations, miniature aquatic enthusiast! You can get your PCOC, but there's a catch (and it's not a catfish, unless you're really unlucky). Boaters under 16 can only operate boats with motors under 10 horsepower (7.5 kW), and only if there's no one else on board 16 years or older. So, basically, you can tool around in a little putt-putt boat by yourself, practicing your imaginary cannonballs off the side (just don't forget the life jacket!).
16 and Over: Welcome to the big leagues, champ! With your PCOC and newfound maturity (hopefully!), you can captain any pleasure craft, regardless of the engine size. Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility (and the responsibility to avoid those pesky wakes that ruin everyone's picnic).
But Wait, There's More! (Because Boating Safety is No Joke)
Obtaining your PCOC involves taking a boating safety course and passing the Transport Canada exam. Brushing up on things like navigation rules, avoiding collisions, and what to do in case of an emergency is pretty darn important. No one wants to be that guy who gets lost on a lake the size of a bathtub, right?
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So You Think You Can Captain a Boat? How To Get Your Ontario Boating License (The Cliff Notes Version):
How to Take a Boating Safety Course:
Tip: Write down what you learned.
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- There are tons of options available online and in-person. Shop around and find one that fits your learning style (and budget!).
How to Pass the Transport Canada Exam:
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
- You can take the exam online after completing your course. Study hard, buttercup!
How Much Does it Cost?
- Costs can vary depending on the course provider, but you're generally looking in the ballpark of $50-$100.
How Long Does it Take?
- The course itself can take anywhere from a few hours to a a full day.
How Long is My PCOC Valid For?
- Luckily, your PCOC never expires! You're good to go until the oceans rise and swallow us all (hopefully that won't happen anytime soon).
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