A popular boating destination, Victoria is an excellent place to take your boat out on the water. Whether you want to cruise for a day in the sun, or head out overnight, you’ll want to ensure you have the correct Victoria boat licence.
Victoria Boat Licence FAQ
How to get a boat licence in Victoria?
If you wish to drive a powered recreational vessel in Victoria, you will need a marine boat licence. Power includes engines in sailing boats and paddle craft fitted with a motor – though some low-powered kayaks and canoes are exempt. If you wish to ride a jet ski you will need a marine licence with personal watercraft (PWC) endorsement. You can apply for your licence through Safe Transport Victoria.
Do I need a boat licence in Victoria?
If you plan to operate a motorized boat in Victoria, you will need to apply for a Victoria boating licence. This means any vessel with a motor – regardless of the size of the vessel, or the engine.
How much is a boat licence in Victoria?
Your Victoria boat licence is now valid for five years; however, people used to be able to opt in for one, three, or five years. The prices and options for each type of boat licence are:
- Marine licence – 1 year – $39.80; 3 years – $119.40; 5 years – $199.00
- Marine licence with PWC endorsement – 1 year – $44.90; 3 years – $134.70; 5 years – $224.50
- Restricted marine licence – 1 year – $22.40; 3 years – $67.20; 5 years- $112.00
How old to get a boat licence in Victoria?
At aged 16, you can get a full marine licence in Victoria. However, restricted boat licences are available for those between 12 and 16 years old. A restricted licence means that you can’t operate a vessel between sunset and sunrise; tow a person, another vessel or an object, or; operate at a speed of 10 knots or more. You also won’t be allowed to get a PWC endorsement until your reach the age of 16.
How to renew boat licence in Victora?
Most marine licences are due for renewal every five years. Unless you opted into a shorter licence period, your licence will renew in correlation with the terms. For example, a one-year licence, will need to be renewed in one year; a three-year licence, in three years, etc.
Can I use my NSW boat licence in Victoria?
Current boating licences issued in other states are recognised in Victoria for up to three months. If you plan to remain in VIC for longer than three months, you will need to transfer your NSW boat licence to a Victoria boat licence.
Can you register a boat in Victora without a licence?
The requirements for registering a boat in Victoria require a few items; however, a valid boat licence is not one of them.
- You must be at least 14 years old.
- The boat must be in seaworthy condition.
- Send your completed application form and registration fee to VicRoads.
- You must renew every 12 months.
Ensuring you know the proper rules and regulations for a recreational boat licence in Victoria will allow you to safely head out on the waters of Victoria. For more information, refer to the VicRoads section of the Victoria Government website.
You can also go back to the national boat licence requirements in Australia for information on other States.