NSW Boat Licence
Theory Session & Test
NSW Boat Licence & PWC Licence Course Information
This course is conducted by Superyacht Crew Academy.
Superyacht Crew Academy / Club Sail ABN 1907 7443 157 is an Authorised Training Provider (ATP) approved by NSW Maritime to provide practical boat training and/or knowledge testing for the NSW general boat driving licence and PWC driving licence.
Boat Licence Course Information
The course starts at 9.00am and runs for approximately 6 to 7 hours. This includes the theory seminar, test and practical training. When you have successfully completed one of our comprehensive GENERAL BOAT and/or PWC (Jet Ski) safety training programs and test you will be eligible to apply for the applicable licence with Service NSW. You will be provided with an application form (completed at the course) and must present this at Service NSW along with paying the appropriate licence fee.
About the Exam
- 50 multiple choice questions
- First 20 questions must all be answered correctly
- Next 30 questions must have 24 correct answers
- If you fail the first attempt a second attempt may be made immediately. If you fail the second attempt you may resit at a later date at any of our courses or at our office at no extra charge. You can also attend any of our theory seminars at no cost if you feel you need further training.
NSW Boat Licence & PWC Licence Course Costs
NSW Boat Licence Costs
- NSW Boat Licence Course: $345
- Theory Seminar & Test ONLY: $165* (candidates must be completing the log book method on a vessel as per RMS website)
* Young adults (12-15 years) a $20 discount applies.
PWC (Jet Ski) Licence Costs
- PWC Stand Alone Course: $140* (candidates must already hold a NSW Boat Licence in order to complete the PWC Licence)
- PWC Course, added to Theory Seminar & Test ONLY: $305 (candidates must be completing the log book method on a vessel as per RMS website)
- NSW Boat & PWC Licence can be taken on the same day: $415*
* For young adults (12-15 years) a $20 discount applies.
Onsite group training can be provided at your venue, discounts may apply please make an inquiry using the contact us page.
Training Location
Newport address: 2 Queens Parade, Newport NSW, 2106 CLICK HERE
NSW Boat Licence Test
If you’re looking to apply for a general boat driving licence or upgrade to a personal watercraft (PWC) licence in New South Wales, you must pass a knowledge test specific to your licence type.
To help you prepare, take advantage of the online revision quizzes tailored for both general boat and PWC licences. These practice quizzes feature questions directly from the pool used in the official tests, offering a valuable preview of what to expect.
You’ll need to have studied the boating and/or PWC handbook/s before the test.
To practice the test click here to practice online NSW BOAT LICENCE PRACTICE TEST
Do You Need a Licence to Drive a Boat in NSW?
A general boat driving licence is the minimum requirement for anyone operating a recreational vessel at speeds of 10 knots (approximately 18.5 km/h) or more on NSW waters. This licence ensures that drivers have the necessary knowledge and skills to safely navigate and operate their boats at higher speeds.
Whether you’re enjoying a day out on the water or planning extended boating trips, holding a general boat driving licence is essential for compliance with NSW boating regulations and ensuring safety for all waterway users.
How long does a boat licence last in NSW?
General boat driving licences are renewable for 1, 3, 5 or 10 years and can be renewed online. You’re also able to update your contact details, if you need to.
You’ll receive a renewal notice about 6 weeks before your licence expires.
You can access a digital version of your boat driving licence through the Service NSW app.
What Age Can You Drive a Boat by Yourself in NSW?
In New South Wales, you can apply for a boat licence if you are 12 years or older. This licence allows you to operate a vessel independently, provided you have successfully completed the necessary training and knowledge tests. It’s important to note that there may be additional restrictions for younger drivers, such as supervision requirements and speed limitations. Always ensure you are familiar with all the regulations and safety guidelines to enjoy boating safely.
What Speed Can You Drive on a Junior Boat Licence in NSW?
If you’re age 12, 13, 14 or 15, there are some restrictions on your boat driving licence or PWC driving licence.
Licence holders under age 16 years must not drive a PWC or vessel:
* at a speed greater than 20 knots (approximately 37km/hour), or
* in any race, display, regatta, exhibition or similar operation, or
* between sunset and sunrise, or
* while the vessel is towing anyone.
If driving a vessel other than a PWC at a speed of 10 knots or more:
* you must have someone with a General Boat Driving or PWC licence who is 16 years of age or older present in the vessel
* you must not drive at these speeds between sunset and sunrise
* you must not tow anyone.
If driving a PWC at a speed of 10 knots or more:
* you must have someone with a PWC licence who is 16 years of age or older present on the PWC
* you must not drive at these speeds while towing anyone.
What is The Difference Between a PWC and a NSW Boat Licence?
In New South Wales (NSW), there are distinct licences for operating watercraft. A general boat licence is required for operating recreational boats at speeds over 10 knots. To obtain this licence, you must be at least 12 years old and pass a test covering boating safety and navigation. The boat licence is renewable for 1, 3, 5, or 10 years and can be managed online.
On the other hand, a PWC (Personal Watercraft) licence is specifically for operating jet skis and similar high-speed watercraft. To qualify for a PWC licence, you must first hold a general boat licence and pass an additional test focused on PWC-specific handling and safety. The PWC licence follows the same renewal options as the general boat licence and can also be managed online. The key difference between the two is that the boat licence is for general boats, while the PWC licence is specifically for jet skis.
TO BOOK THE NSW BOAT LICENCE ONLINE SELECT YOUR PREFERRED DATE IN THE BOOKING CALENDAR AND PRESS BOOK NOW
( If on desktop, it will be on the top right of the page, on mobile the calendar should be below this, for tablets it should on be on the top right of the page )
YOU CAN ALSO ADD THE PWC LICENCE AT CHECKOUT.
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