I am in Ottawa and deal with sailboats etc.. Here's the lowdown on the Operator card: New Boating Safety Regulations
The Canadian Coast Guard (Fisheries and Oceans Canada) introduced new Boating Safety Regulations, effective April 1, 1999 which apply when operating a pleasure craft fitted with a motor used for recreational purposes in Canadian water (excluding the Northwest and Nunavut Territories). For full details, visit the Coast Guard web site at
www.ccg-gcc.gc.ca
Highlights of the Boating Safety Regulations are as follows:
New Age & Horsepower Restrictions - as of April 1, 1999
Under 12 Years of Age If not accompanied and directly supervised by a person 16 years old or older: Maximum power of motor 7.5kw (10 hp). At least 12 Years of Age but under 16 Years of Age If not accompanied and directly supervised by a person 16 years old or older: Maximum power of motor 30kw (40 hp).
Under Age 16 Is prohibited from operating a personal water craft (PWC).
New Recreational Boat Operator Competency
September 15, 1999 Youth, born after April 1, 1983 will require a proof of competency on board to operate a boat fitted with a motor. September 15, 2002 Any person operating a boat fitted with a motor and less than 4 meters (including PWC) will require proof of competency on board. September 15, 2009 All operators will require proof of competency on board.
Proof of Competency
proof of having taken a boating safety course prior to April 1, 1999; a pleasure craft operator card (PCOC) from Canadian Coast Guard accredited course provider following a test; a completed rental-boat safety checklist (for power driven rental boats).
Note: The operator card (PCOC) is good for life. Boaters can receive their card after receiving a mark of 75% on a Canadian Coast Guard accredited test
Matt H.
Rebecca