The regulations always apply to you as a user no matter whether you own or hire the personal watercraft. The personal watercraft certificate ensures that the operator of the craft has basic knowledge about navigation and the functioning of the watercraft.
The person, who, at any time, operates the craft "hands on the steering gear", must hold the personal watercraft certificate.
Be aware that all personal watercrafts and power boats etc. must be covered by a mandatory liability insurance.
Read more about this requirement and other important information about operating a personal watercraft.
How to qualify for a personal watercraft certificate?
You acquire the personal watercraft certificate by completing an exam.
At the exam, you are inter alia required to demonstrate knowledge about the regulations for preventing collisions at sea, demonstrate operation at various speeds, including steering and manoeuvring during acceleration and at high and low speed. The exam is also intended to promote safe behaviour and continuous risk assessment during the voyage.
You can take the exam for personal watercraft when you are 15 years or older. You can only operate the personal watercraft, when you have turned 16 years.
If you already hold a certificate for recreational sailors, in example a power boat certificate, you are only required to pass the practical part of the exam, in order to qualify for a personal watercraft certificate.
Personal watercraft exams
Personal watercraft exams are arranged by approved providers. Therefore, recreational sailors must contact a local provider to register for a personal watercraft exam.
Sailing clubs, schools and the like can arrange exams through approved providers.
Questions about personal watercraft certificates, education and training should be directed to the Approved providers.
Issue of personal watercraft certificate
Approved providers issue personal watercraft certificates once the personal watercraft exam has been passed.
Are you in doubt about which approved provider arranged the exam and thus who can issue your certificate?
You can see this on our self-service for Seafarers and the My Maritime app, on the page "Certificates, under "Yachtsman Exams and Certificates".
Lost certificate
If you have lost your personal watercraft certificate, you can request a new one from the approved provider, who has issued the original certificate.