nsw yacht licence

How do I get my boat licence in NSW?

Want to hit the water in nsw in your own boat you’re going to need to log some first-hand experience.

The freedom of the water is a hard-won privilege for NSW boating enthusiasts. Once you do, though, there’s everything from the spectacular Sydney Harbour to 2000km of coastline, more than 40 lakes and six major river systems including the Murray, Darling, Lachlan and Murrumbidgee.

Do I need a boat licence in NSW?

No. But there’s a catch; if you plan on driving a recreational boat at a speed of more than 10 knots, you will need what is called a general boat licence.

The NSW Government issues boaters with a physical licence that looks a lot like a driver’s licence but is coloured blue rather than yellow. You must always carry your licence with you out on the water.

Related: How do I get my boat licence in the Northern Territory? Related: How do I get my boat licence in Queensland? Related: How do I get my boat licence in Victoria? Related: How do I get my boat licence in Western Australia?

NSW general boating licence holders can download a digital copy of their licence to their smartphone via the Service NSW app so they don’t necessarily need to carry a physical copy.

What does my boat licence let me do?

Once you have your boat licence you can drive any boat as long as it is registered as a recreational boat and is used recreationally. You can’t do things such as charge people to jump onboard – but asking them to chip in for fuel is okay – and you can’t catch fish and sell them to someone else.

Under NSW licencing laws, someone who does not hold a general boating licence can drive your boat as long as they do not go faster than 10 knots, even when you are onboard and supervising them. 

How do I get my boat licence?

To qualify for a NSW boat licence, you first need to complete a minimum of three trips (if on a sailboat, you must be using the engine) with either an experienced skipper onboard, or as part of an accredited training course.

These trips need to be detailed in a logbook , and cover everything from engine maintenance to trip planning and ensuring you get rescued if things go wrong.

You then have to pass a general boat driving licence knowledge test made up of 50 multiple-choice questions, based on the NSW Boating Handbook .

How old do I need to be to get a boat licence?

In NSW, the minimum age to get a marine licence is 12. However, anyone aged under 16 cannot go faster than 20 knots unless they have someone on board aged 16 or over with a full licence, cannot go faster than 10 knots by themselves, nor can they compete in on-water competitions such as races or regattas.

Do I need to be able to drive a boat before I can get my licence?

Yes. Boats drive very differently from cars , so as we pointed out earlier NSW requires anyone wanting to apply for a general boating licence to keep a logbook of at least three trips they’ve made out on the water with an experienced skipper. 

How can I study for my boat licence?

You can prepare for the test by completing a practice test online .

How much does it cost to get a NSW marine licence?

Finding an experienced skipper to help you complete the logbook requirements is the cheapest way to jump the first hurdle. If you can’t find a skipper, there are a number of accredited courses you can take that will cost around $300.

Once you have met the logbook requirements, you have 12 months to sit the multiple-choice question test. To sit the test, book one via the Service NSW website and pay the $37 administration fee.

Once you pass, you can choose to get a general boating licence that will last from one year ($65, or $33 if you are aged less than 16 years) to 10 years ($488, or $244 if you are aged less than 16 years).

What happens if I forget to renew my boat licence?

If you let your general boating licence lapse you’ll need to re-sit the test to renew it.

Can I ride a jet ski with my marine licence?

No. You need to do a separate multiple-choice exam to gain a personal watercraft endorsement for your general boating licence. A jet ski licence endorsement in NSW costs more than twice as much as a general boating licence.

I have a sailboat; do I need a licence?

If your sailboat is powered only using the wind, in theory, you don’t need a marine licence. However, if it has an outboard or inboard engine or electric motor capable of pushing it along at more than 10 knots, you will.

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Renew a general boat licence (not PWC)

Introduction.

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.

Note: If you need to renew your PWC licence, visit  Renew or restore a personal watercraft (PWC) driving licence

What you need

• general boat driving licence number
• renewal number
• customer reference number
• your concession card (if recording a concession for the first time)
• your payment .

How to renew

• Select the 'Renew online' button.
• Follow the prompts.

You can also renew in person at a Service NSW service centre  or Mobile Service Centre .

Note: Call 13 12 36  if you want to renew by phone, or if you need help when renewing online.

More information

• Licence fees vary depending on the duration of the licence, and whether they are concessional licences.
• You must be under 16 years of age, or hold an eligible concession card at the time of payment, to receive a concession.
• If you hold an unrestricted NSW driver licence (all classes) and a NSW general boat driving licence, you may be eligible to combine these 2 licences on one card. Visit Transport for NSW  to make sure you have all the information.
• If any of your personal details change, you must notify us within 14 days. You'll need to update your driver licence or photo ID separately to your maritime licence.

Payment methods

You can review transaction payment options on our payment methods page.

• Boating Handbook – PDF
• Fees for a boat or PWC licence – Transport for NSW

Related transactions

• Renew or restore a personal watercraft (PWC) driving licence

Rate the information on the page

• Boat Licence
• PWC Licence (jetski)

Courses – Hunter and Central Coast

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Hunter + Central Coast

Nsw boat & pwc licence courses.

Our popular NSW boat and PWC licence courses are run right across the Hunter and along the Central Coast. These courses are delivered by our own accredited training team who have in-depth knowledge of the Hunter and Central Coast’s many great boating locations. 

If you don’t see a nearby location from the list below, get in touch with us and we’ll help set up a course in your area so you don’t have to travel.

Course Vouchers

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Policy Information
• Pre-booking student information pack

NSW Boat Licence

Ph: 0468 565 494

Email: click here

Office hours: 8am - 8pm weekdays

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Course Training

Sailingworld pty ltd t/a Boating Licence Course (ACN # 092 478 718 | RTO # 91229) is approved by NSW Maritime to provide practical boat training and/or knowledge testing for the NSW general boat driving licence and PWC driving licence.

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NSW Boat Licence

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COURSE DATES

The course is 1 day in total.

Custom Dates Can Be Booked For 3 Or More People.

•  Sat 22 Jun

•  S un 14 Jul

•  Sa t 27 Jul

•  S un 11 Aug

•  Sat 24 Aug

•  S un 08 Sep

•  Sat 2 1 Sep

•  S un 06 Oct

•  Sat 19 Oct

•  S un 03 Nov

•  Sat 16 Nov

•  S un 01 Dec

•  Sat 14 Dec

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.

Please call on +61 2 9979 9669 or email us  [email protected], in order to book your course or if you would like any additional information.

READY TO BOOK?

Get qualified! Enhance your employment opportunities by completing the courses that will kickstart or compliment your Maritime Career. Upskill to ensure you are industry ready and contact us today!

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Theory Session & Test

Nsw boat licence & pwc licence course information.

This course is conducted by Superyacht Crew Academy.

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.

Enquire about this Course

Superyacht Crew Academy Provides training and certification for people who wish to work on Superyachts anywhere in the world and within the Australian Maritime Industry. Legal Name: Club Sail Pty. Ltd. Trading as: Superyacht Crew Academy Registered Training Organisation no. 91462

Unit 25a/5 Ponderosa Parade, Warriewood, NSW 2102, Australia.

+61 2 9979 9669

[email protected]

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Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 construction to begin in this term of Government

Published: 3 June 2024

Released by: The Premier, Minister for Transport

Construction of Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 will begin under the Minns Labor Government, with a $2 billion investment to build better, connected communities in Sydney’s growing west.

The 2024-25 Budget paves the way for the NSW Labor Government to meet its election commitment; to start construction on this essential project in this term of government.

The investment follows recent NSW Planning Approval for the project, as well as Federal Environmental Approval.

The game-changing transport project will unlock development potential and deliver frequent and reliable public transport options for residents that moved into fast-growing suburbs like Wentworth Point.

The 12km alignment will link the Parramatta CBD to Sydney Olympic Park via Camellia, Rydalmere, Ermington, Melrose Park and Wentworth Point with 14 new stops, three new river crossings and 8.5km of new walking and cycling paths.

Passengers will be able to travel from Sydney Olympic Park to Camellia in around 30 minutes, and on to the Parramatta CBD in another 7 minutes.

Construction will be phased, with initial work to begin later this year on a new 320-metre public and active transport bridge over Parramatta River, between Melrose Park and Wentworth Point.

Stage 1 of the Parramatta Light Rail project is currently in testing and is on track to service tens of thousands of commuters in the coming months.

Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 was promised by the previous government, but never received the funding required to begin construction on this essential transport link.

The people of NSW need a coordinated and sustainable roadmap. A plan that understands how people want to live, and works to provide better services like healthcare, policing, education and good public transport.

The Minns Labor Government’s plan has infrastructure built alongside housing to build better, stronger, well-serviced communities in NSW.

Find out more about the Parramatta Light Rail project

NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“We’re getting on with the job and building this essential project that people who live in the fast growing suburbs of Western Sydney were promised.

“People moved into the area with the promise of infrastructure that never arrived. The NSW Labor Government is now delivering.

“Stage 2 will directly link Parramatta to the Sydney Olympic Park precinct residents in Parramatta to the Sydney Olympic Park precinct.

“The light rail’s forecast to carry 28,000 passengers every day by 2026.  That’s a game-changer for communities around Parramatta – connecting venues, schools, shops and people for decades to come.”

Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said:

“With testing powering ahead, Parramatta Light Rail Stage 1 is on track to open in the coming months.”

“But we know there are more communities that need access to this vital infrastructure investment.

“This investment will get shovels in the ground and construction started before the end of this parliamentary term. Just as we promised.

“In 2041, 280,000 people are expected to live along the Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 alignment.

They need frequent and reliable public transport services, and we’ll deliver it.”

Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis said:

“Our community has been promised this vital transport link for years, and now Labor is delivering.

“As Lord Mayor, and now Member for Parramatta, I’ve advocated tirelessly for many years about this project and I’m so pleased the Premier and Minister have listened.”

Related ministerial media releases

See all ministerial media release, related information.

• Parramatta Light Rail

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More NSW Government vibrancy reforms commence on 1 July 2024

Important changes to the NSW liquor laws to further support a thriving and vibrant night-time economy and the associated music and cultural sector will commence on 1 July 2024.

Changes include:

• reforms to the noise and disturbance complaints process for licensed premises
• streamlined consultation processes for liquor licence applications
• a new limited takeaway authorisation for restaurants and small bars
• new extended trading applications for hotels that schedule live music or arts and cultural events
• easier training requirements for former licensees re-entering the industry
• prescribed signage requirements for bottle shops and stores with liquor sales areas
• recognising interstate digital driver licences as a relevant evidence of age document

For information on the opportunities and changes for your licence, visit the What’s Changing page.