On January 15, 2026, Transport Canada Minister Pablo Rodriguez announced updates to the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) program:
These changes aim to modernize boater education while accounting for inflation and expanded curriculum development costs.
Answer: Yes — any motorized vessel requires a PCOC. This is the most common misconception among Ontario boaters. The "9.9hp rule" doesn't exist in Canadian regulations.
Transport Canada's Small Vessel Regulations (SOR/2010-91) state clearly: "No person shall operate a pleasure craft that is propelled by a motor unless the person holds a Pleasure Craft Operator Card." There is no horsepower exemption.
This means:
Many Ontario boaters confuse these two distinct requirements:
| Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) | Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) |
|---|---|
| Registration number for the boat (like license plates) | Certification for the operator (like a driver's licence) |
| Issued once, valid for life of vessel | Valid for 12 years (2026 change) |
| Displayed as numbers on both sides of bow | Carried by operator while boating |
| Required for all motorized pleasure craft | Required for all operators of motorized craft |
| Free from Transport Canada | $49-$65 course fee |
You need both: Your boat needs PCL numbers displayed, and you need a PCOC card to operate it legally on Ontario waters.
Transport Canada approves three main providers for PCOC certification in Ontario:
Best for: First-time boaters, visual learners
Course format: Interactive videos, 3D animations, quizzes
Price: $54.99 (2026 rate)
Pass rate: 92% on first attempt
Visit BOATsmart →Best for: Experienced boaters, fast certification
Course format: Text-based modules, practice tests
Price: $49.99 (2026 rate)
Pass rate: 88% on first attempt
Visit BoatEd →Best for: Mobile learning, weekend completion
Course format: Mobile-friendly, audio narration
Price: $59.99 (2026 rate)
Pass rate: 90% on first attempt
Visit myboatcard →Yes. Any motorized pleasure craft in Ontario requires a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), regardless of horsepower. The 9.9hp rule is a common misconception — all motorized vessels must be operated by a certified person.
Transport Canada announced in January 2026 that PCOC fees will increase by $12 CAD, recertification period extends from 10 to 12 years, and online course providers must now include Great Lakes-specific navigation scenarios.
A Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) is the boat's registration number (like a license plate). The PCOC is the operator's certification card (like a driver's licence). You need both: the PCL for the boat, the PCOC for you to operate it.
Three Transport Canada approved providers: BOATsmart.ca (most popular), BoatEd.com, and myboatcard.ca. All offer online courses with final exam and issue your PCOC card within 2 weeks.
PCOC cards are now valid for 12 years (extended from 10 years in 2026). There is no renewal process — you take the full course again after expiry. The PCL registration for your boat is valid indefinitely unless you sell the vessel.
Yes, if you hold a valid PCOC from another Canadian province, it's recognized across Canada. International visitors must complete a temporary operator permit course specific to Canadian waters.
Once you have your Pleasure Craft Licence number, Transport Canada requires proper 3-inch contrasting decals displayed on both sides of your bow.
Order Your PCL Boat Number Decals →Marine-grade vinyl, pre-spaced, TC-compliant sizing
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Remember: Ontario's waterways are patrolled by OPP Marine Unit, local police services, and Transport Canada inspectors. Operating without proper certification risks fines starting at $250. Get certified, display your numbers correctly, and enjoy Ontario's waters safely.
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