Boat- & JetSki- Licence

If you are living in Australia close to the coast (which is where most of the Australians live), it is quite handy to have a boat licence since there is a very good chance that one day or the other you will be on a boat. You might then also be able to drive it yourself (for having more fun). Getting a boat licence is pretty easy and not expensive.

The following information is for Queensland only. Even if the other states / territories have similar regulations, you have to familiarize yourself with them individually if you intend to get your boat licence there.

In Queensland, you must have a recreational marine licence if you want to drive a boat that has an engine of more than 4.5 kW. The boat may then be used only for recreational purposes. If you also want to ride a jet ski (personal watercraft) so in addition to the boat licence you need a jet ski licence (personal watercraft licence).

The boat licence in Queensland is valid for a lifetime, you do not have to renew it.

A boat license can be obtained within a day.

Prerequisites are that you must be at least 16 years old and either successfully complete a course or have a recognized driving boat licence from another country (or state / territory).

Furthermore, you have to confirm that you are fit for health.

If these conditions are met, you can apply for your boat licence.

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