Aceboater.com - Boating License

National Safe Boating Week — May 16–22, 2026

National Safe Boating Week reminds everyone to stay safe and prepared while enjoying time on the water. Whether boating, fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding, safety should always come first. Always wear a properly fitted life jacket, check weather conditions before leaving, and ensure your boat carries the required safety equipment. Operators should remain alert, follow navigation rules, and never boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Taking a boating safety course is also a great way to improve knowledge and confidence on the water. Safe boating helps protect you, your passengers, and everyone sharing the waterways this season.

What Has Changed About the Pleasure Craft License?

Transport Canada has updated the rules for Pleasure Craft Licences (PCLs) to improve safety, record keeping, and regulatory compliance. As of December 31, 2025, all new and renewed PCLs are valid for five years, replacing the previous 10-year or lifetime licences. Existing lifetime licences will be gradually phased out and replaced with five-year licences when owners renew.

It’s important to note that a PCL is for the boat itself, providing a unique identification number similar to a vehicle licence plate, while the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is for the person operating the boat, confirming they have completed an accredited boating safety course and passed the required test, and is still valid for life. Both are legally required for compliant and safe boating, but they serve different purposes: the PCL identifies the vessel, while the PCOC certifies the operator’s knowledge and skills.

Boat owners must also pay a $24 service fee for the pleasure craft license actions, and update any name or address changes within 30 days. Starting in 2028, wind-powered pleasure craft over six metres will also need a PCL, ensuring all sizable recreational vessels are properly registered.

Click here for more information on Pleasure Craft Licences. https://aceboater.com/transport-canada-boating-licence-changes

Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa Claus is here !!! 🎅

https://aceboater.com/gift-certificate-christmas

Give the gift of safety this Holiday Season! 🎄

This Christmas, Aceboater is spreading holiday cheer by offering gift certificates for our online boating safety course.

🎁A thoughtful gift that lasts a lifetime!

You will receive a personalized gift certificate for your loved one via email, complete with a prepaid code for the course.

🎅Make their holiday special—call us today 1-800-607-2329

A gift certificate for the pleasure craft operator card! For Christmas, offer the online study guide and the Transport Canada final test to someone you care for, so that they may obtain their boating license!