The Pleasure Craft Operator Card, also known as a PCOC, is proof of competency under the Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations.

As of September 15, 2009 any person operating any powered recreational boat must have proof of competency.

Exemptions:

Proof of previous training (until 03/31/1999) such as Canadian Power Squadron or Sail Canada, (CYA) courses.

Note:

If you are taking the SVOP certificate, you do not need a PCOC as the SVOP certificate is a much higher standard.

For small non-pleasure vessels:

Passenger vessels, 6 or less passengers and 8 m. or less in length, operating in Sheltered Waters, a PCOC is the minimum requirement.

Work Boat, 8 m. or less, less than 2 nautical miles from shore in Near Coastal, Class 2 or in Sheltered Waters, PCOC is the minimum requirement.

For further details, see the FAQ page.

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