New Regulations for Pleasure Craft Licensing Now In Effect

Important changes have been made to the Pleasure Craft Licensing process. A pleasure craft licence is a document with a unique number that is displayed on both sides of the bow of a pleasure craft.

What are the changes?

• Expiry date: All new, transferred and renewed pleasure craft licences are valid for 5 years. Licences that previously didn’t have an expiry date will now have one.
• Fee: A $24 fee will apply to new, renewed, transferred or replaced pleasure craft licences.
• Updating your information: You must now update your licence information within 30 days of it changing (e.g., changes to name or phone number). Updating your information is free.
• Cancellation of a PCL: The criteria for cancelling a licence have expanded. A licence must be cancelled if the vessel is no longer seaworthy or for other specific reasons outlined by the Minister of Transport.
• Wind-powered craft: Starting December 31, 2027, wind-powered pleasure craft over 6 metres long will need a pleasure craft licence. This will not apply to human-powered boats like kayaks, canoes, or dragon boats.