Guidance Manuals

The need to hold a licence or ticket in order to operate a recreational boat is specified by the local State and Territory Marine Safety Agency. The requirements applying to personal watercraft are normally different to those applying to other boats.

In most cases, new applicants will be required to demonstrate a level of knowledge of maritime 'rules of the road' and practical competence in boat handling before being issued with a ticket or licence.

The national guidelines developed through NMSC (see below) provide a template to assist in State and Territory Marine Safety Agencies in the development of local competency and licensing requirements. Boaters should consult their local Marine Safety Agency to determine the precise requirements applying in their State or Territory.