You will need this licence if you intend to operate a power-driven recreational vessel in NSW waters, at a speed of 10 knots (18.5 km/h) or more. You will also require this licence if you intend to drive a personal watercraft (PWC) at any speed.
There are four types of licences:
- General Licence: a licence for people aged 16 and over, to drive any vessel (except a PWC) at 10 knots or more.
- Personal Watercraft Licence (PWC): for those who have a General Licence and intend to drive a PWC.
- Young Adult General Licence: a restricted licence for people aged between 12-16 years.
- Young Adult Personal Watercraft Licence: a restricted licence for people aged between 12-16 years who intend to drive a PWC.
A personal watercraft (PWC) is a power-driven vessel that has a fully enclosed hull that may be driven standing up, sitting astride or kneeling, and includes jet powered surfboards.
Please note that exemptions from holding this licence apply. Please see the regulation for details.
Please be aware that you can now apply to have a combined driver licence (motor vehicle) and boat driving licence on the one card. The licences remain separate and there is no change in the way a driver or boat licence is obtained or maintained.