Boatmasters' licence
Check if you need a licence
You must have a boatmasters鈥� licence if you鈥檙e the master of certain vessels on:
- inland waters in categories A to D, such as canals, rivers, lakes and some estuaries
- 鈥榣imited鈥� coastal area operations - no more than 5 miles from the land and 15 miles from where your vessel sets off or arrives
You may be prosecuted and fined for not having the right boatmasters鈥� licence.
Find out what types and class of vessels can operate on UK inland waters.
When you do not need a licence
You do not need a boatmasters鈥� licence if you鈥檙e in charge of:
- a pleasure vessel, including hire boats used as pleasure vessels
- fishing vessels
Using alternative certificates
Some certificates can be used instead of a boatmasters鈥� licence, including STCW certificates of competency and certificates awarded by the Royal Yachting Association.
If you have an alternative certificate, you must:
- check if you need a paper endorsement or a boat handling test - read sections 3 and 4 of the boatmasters鈥� qualifications and hours of work notice
- download and fill in the application form and send it to your nearest marine office
- pay the right fees