What are the requirements for obtaining a NSW Boat Licence?
Complete an approved boat licence course, successfully complete the boat licence test and undertake a practical boating session.
What are the requirements for obtaining a NSW PWC (Jetski) Licence?
Complete an approved PWC course and then successfully complete the PWC licence test.
NOTE: The pre-requisite to obtaining a NSW PWC Licence is to be the holder of a current NSW General Boat Licence.
Does the College course meet NSW Maritime requirements for obtaining a NSW general boat and/or PWC licence?
Yes. In addition the College licence courses have been developed from training competencies derived from the nationally recognised SIS10 Sport, Fitness and Recreation and TDM07 Maritime Training Packages.
What is the College Certificate of Satisfactory Course Completion?
The College Certificate of Satisfactory Course Completion is the paper slip that certifies your completion of the Boat/PWC course, boat practical and licence tests. It is NOT your licence.
How long is the College Certificate valid for?
The College Certificate of Satisfactory Course Completion is valid for up to 12 months from the date of issue. It needs to be presented to NSW Maritime within 12 months of course completion to obtain the licence. The Certificate becomes void after 12 months and complete re-assessment is required, along with payment of an additional assessment fee of $150.00.
Will my NSW Boat Licence be recognised in other states?
Yes, in Queensland, West Australia, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. Currently in Northern Territory there is no licence requirement.
What does the College boat licence test and practical full day course involve?
The course commences in the morning with instructor-led classroom theory including demonstrating safety equipment, collision regulations, navigation lights and channel markers, revision and the completion of the NSW Maritime multiple choice question test. In the afternoon students then reinforce classroom learning with practical experience onboard the College training vessel, Skipper 1, a 6.1 Quintrex. The practical assessment involves every student getting behind wheel, learning engine controls, steering, docking, manoeuvring and anchoring. Students will also participate in an emergency drill covering person overboard, fire, collision and grounding. Launching and retrieval is also covered on the day. Students will also participate in crew seamanship and line handling activities.
Is there any pre-reading required prior to completing the course?
We recommend all students complete some prior reading before completing the course. Students on booking comfirmation are provided with a link to a download area containing course pre-reading documention. The College course is structured to provide students with all the learning required to pass the boat licence.
Can I obtain PWC Licence on the same day as the boat licence?
Yes, on successful completion of the boat licence test you will then be given the PWC Licence test to complete. This consists of 15 multiple choice questions. There is currently no practical requirement for obtaining a NSW PWC Licence.
Will practical courses operate in adverse conditions?
In most circumstances yes, subject to trainer discretion. The College training vessel is fitted with full biminy, storm covers, radio and safety equipment. It is rare for the practical course to be cancelled due to weather. Students are advised to dress and be prepared for conditions of the day.
What should I bring on the day?
Proof of Identity (such as Drivers Licence, Passport Birth Certificate) PWC students in addtion to one full proof of identity document must bring 2 colour passport photos.
Students attending practical training should bring; drinking water, packed lunch, suncsreeen , hat, sunglasses, sensible footwear (deck shoes, joggers, sandshoes - no thongs) and jacket, suitable for the conditions on the day of training.
What do I do after completing the boat and/or PWC licence course?
On successful completion of the College course students will be issued with a course completion certificate (valid for 12 months) which they then present at a NSW Maritime Centre along with current ID and the boat licence application form. NSW Maritime will issue a licence on the day of payment of the licence fee which can be a one or three year licence. No further testing is required.
Will practical training operate in adverse conditions?
In most circumstances yes, subject to trainer discretion. The College training vessel is fitted with full biminy, storm covers, radio and safety equipment. It is rare for the practical course to be cancelled due to weather. Students are advised to dress and be prepared for conditions of the day.

