Surrounded by water, Tasmania is a boater’s paradise. Naturally, you’ll want to know about any Tasmania boat licence requirements before you take your boat over to these pristine waters. Read on for more information on obtaining your recreational boat licence in Tasmania.
Tasmania Boat Licence FAQ
How to get a boat licence in Tasmania?
The governing body for marine licencing in Tasmania is Marine and Safety Tasmania. A boat licence is required when operating a vessel with a motor of 4hp or greater (except for a hire or drive vessel) and can be used for recreational boating only. You can apply for your Tasmania boat licence on the government website here.
To operate a jet ski (otherwise known as a personal watercraft or PWC), you are required to hold a current motor boat licence and have an endorsement on this licence. The PWC endorsement is obtained by completing a PWC Practical Course with an accredited provider. For more information, click here.
Can I drive a 3hp boat without a licence in Tasmania?
Yes, legally, you can drive a boat that is 3hp or less in Tasmania. The current boat licence requirements in Tasmania mandate that all vessels 4hp and above require a recreational boat licence provided by the government of Tasmania in order to safely travel on the water.
Do I need a boat licence for 8hp in Tasmania?
Yes, you will require a boat licence if operating a boat with an engine of 8hp. In fact, you will require a boat licence in Tasmania for any vessel with a 4hp engine output or greater.
Is my boat licence current in Tasmania?
If you aren’t sure whether your boat licence is currently valid in Tasmania, there’s a simple search you can do to find out on the Service Tasmania website. All you must do is enter your licence number and date of birth; if you don’t know your licence number, you can also search using your name and address. Find out more on the Service Tasmania website.
What age to get a boat licence in Tasmania?
Anyone aged 17 and over can apply for a boat licence in Tasmania. In order to do so, you’ll need to complete a BoatSafe Practical Course and then apply for your boat licence. Those aged 12 – 16 can still apply for a provisional boat licence but certain restrictions apply.
When do I need a boat licence in Tasmania?
You need a boat licence in Tasmania as soon as you are planning to operate a boat with a 4hp engine or larger. You can apply at 17 years old, or for a provisional boat licence for those aged 12 – 16, who plan to use a boat with an engine size of 4hp or greater.
Where to renew a boat licence in Tasmania?
Boat licences in Tasmania are valid for three years, but all have an expiry date of 30 June, regardless of when you applied. Prior to expiry, a renewal will be forwarded to you ahead of the following 30th of June.
Applying for and obtaining your boat licence is easy in Tasmania for those who want to make the most of their time on the water here. With an abundance of information on the above Service Tasmania website, you’re sure to have your boat licence sorted, and be headed out on the water in no time. For information on other boat licences across Australia, please click here.