Getting a Boating Licence

Originally written by Haydn Mullineux, updated by the editorial team on 4th June 2026

Do You Need a Boating Licence in the UK?

The regulations governing boating in the UK differ significantly from those for driving. There is no legal requirement to pass a test or hold a personal qualification before taking a boat out on the water. The emphasis tends to fall on the vessel itself rather than the person at the helm.

That said, the situation changes depending on where you want to boat. Private recreational vessels in coastal waters and the open sea do not require a specific boating licence, though you must still comply with maritime regulations and carry appropriate safety equipment. Inland waterways are another matter entirely.

If you plan to use a river, canal or lake, you will usually need some form of licence or registration. The specific requirements depend on which body of water you want to use and which organisation manages it.

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Navigation Authorities and Where They Apply

Most of Britain's inland waterways fall under the control of a handful of organisations. Each organisation requires specific licensing arrangements, with boaters needing to register with the appropriate authority prior to launching.

The Canal and River Trust manages the majority of canals and rivers across England and Wales. This includes well known routes such as the Grand Union Canal, the Kennet and Avon, and many others. A licence from the Trust is required before using these waters.

The Environment Agency oversees certain rivers, including the Thames, the Medway and several waterways in East Anglia. Boats using these stretches must be registered with the Agency and display the appropriate certificate.

The Broads Authority is responsible for the Norfolk and Suffolk Broads. Boaters here pay what is commonly called a toll, though this payment functions as a licence for practical purposes, granting permission to navigate these waters and contributing to their upkeep.

A number of smaller waterways are managed by other bodies, including local authorities and private trusts. It is advisable to verify with the relevant navigation authority before setting out on unfamiliar waterways.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

Types of Licence and How to Apply

Licence options vary depending on the authority and how often you plan to boat. Most offer a choice between annual licences and shorter term permits for occasional use.

The Canal and River Trust provides licences on an annual basis, with the cost depending on the size of your boat. Short term licences are available for those who only want to use the waterways for a few days or weeks. There are also options for boats that remain in one place, such as houseboats or those kept in a marina.

The Environment Agency offers registration for boats on its waters. As with the Trust, fees are typically based on the length of the vessel. Boats already licensed with the Canal and River Trust may be able to obtain a Gold Licence, which covers both Canal and River Trust and Environment Agency waterways for an additional fee.

For the Broads, tolls are payable to the Broads Authority. Visitors bringing boats to the area for short periods can purchase temporary tolls.

For precise information on fees, eligibility criteria, and application forms, consult the official website of the relevant authority. GOV.UK also provides guidance on boat registration and links to the relevant bodies.

Qualifications and Training

While no formal qualification is required by law, many boaters choose to take training courses. Organisations such as the Royal Yachting Association offer certificates that cover practical skills and safety knowledge. These can be useful for building confidence, and some hire companies or insurance providers may ask to see evidence of competence.

Certain commercial operations, including passenger boats and some charter vessels, do require the skipper to hold recognised qualifications. This is separate from the recreational licensing system and is governed by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

For most leisure boaters, the main concern is simply ensuring the boat is properly licensed for the waters being used. While optional, undertaking a course can be particularly beneficial for novices or those planning extended voyages.

If you are unsure about requirements for a particular journey or type of boat, the relevant navigation authority can usually provide clear guidance.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Boat Mooring Cost Calculator lets you estimate annual mooring fees based on boat type, size, location type, and UK region. Try it now →

63 questions

Ask Sailing and Boating a Question

SailingAndBoating Editor 19/05/2026 at 9:18 am

@JDL366 What you need is the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) with the Inland waters endorsement, which covers the CEVNI rules used on European waterways. The RYA runs this through approved training centres across the UK, usually as a one or two day course plus a short test. If you've little experience, do the Helmsman's Course first, then the ICC assessment. Book early as slots fill up fast in spring.

JDL366 25/06/2025 at 10:29 am

Hi,

Could you please help?

I'm looking to go to Germany, with my partner, to spend a long weekend, cruising along a few connected lakes in Germany, in a Houseboat, but the company insists that I have " A valid inland waterway pleasure boat license."

And this is where I need your help - How can I get one?

All the research I've done online appears to be based on me having a boat already and want to rent it out and carry up to 12 passengers.

As you can see, this is not what I need so if you can point me in the right direction to take a suitable course, that would be much appreciated.

Many thanks in advance,

Jamie

SailingAndBoating Editor 06/07/2026 at 9:08 am

@Oscar Yes, you'll need a registration for the Thames even for weekend use, as you're launching and taking it home. Contact the Environment Agency for a short-term or annual boat registration, and if it has an engine you'll also need to comply with their engine and safety requirements. You'll want a rod licence too if you're fishing, which is separate and available from the Post Office or gov.uk. Insurance with third party cover of at least £2 million is a condition of registration, so sort that before applying.

Oscar 26/08/2020 at 7:44 am

I’m need a license for a 14 ft 5 bh for a pleasure and fishing in the Thames ? I’m used just in the weekend and I’m taking home

SailingAndBoating Editor 06/07/2026 at 9:08 am

@Toff For a private speedboat on the coast for your own fishing, there's no legal requirement for a licence in UK tidal waters, though you'll need one if you ever venture onto inland waterways run by the CRT or EA. Insurance isn't legally required either, but get third party cover at minimum (most marinas and slipways insist on it, and £3m public liability protects you if you hit another vessel or a swimmer). No mandatory test, but the RYA Powerboat Level 2 is well worth doing and often required by insurers. There's no fixed distance limit from shore, but your boat's category and safety kit realistically dictate how far out is sensible. Have a look at the RYA website and your local harbour authority for the specifics.

Toff 14/05/2020 at 11:20 pm

Hi pls help with few questioned I have.
I bought a fletcher arrow speed boat for sole use on our lovely British coastline for some fishing.
1.Do I need any kind of license?
2. What kind of insurance do I need? And why
3. Any exam or test required to be takeN Prior using the boat.
4. What do I need to know and how I get those information.
Lastly how far am I allowed by law to drive the boat from the coastline.

Thanking you all in advance.
With regards
Toff

John89 12/04/2020 at 10:12 pm

I’m buying an 8 metre yacht to live in at a dock and going to sail around the uk sea do I need a license

Jay 28/11/2019 at 5:05 pm

I want to learn how to drive a boat do I need some form of provisional? Do I need to do a test etc before hiring a boat out etc

Jake Brook 07/08/2019 at 12:13 pm

Can anyone help at all I just don't know where to start. My self an the kids have decided to buy a rib inflatable boat what do I need who do I contact don't want to get in trouble for not have the legal things

Kar893 02/04/2019 at 9:26 am

We have upgraded from our inflatable canoes to Intex Excursion Inflatable Boat Set with Aluminium Oars and Pump ( 5 Person Model) The boat measures approximately 144in x 66in x 17in (366cm x 168cm x 43cm) with Bsion 40ft/lb 12v Electric Outboard Trolling Motor - our intention is to use it on the waterways all over the UK and perhaps abroad. From the research I have done it appears the Gold License is the best to suit our needs but it is the insurance I am not sure on where does one get that what class does our raft, dingy fall into? The Canal and River Trust adviced us "To use any of our navigations, you will not require a certificate of compliance or boat safety certificate. All that we would require is that you have insurance in place for the vessel and a valid license to use our waters. As you will have an engine, we require that you hold third party liability cover for a minimum of £2 million pounds." However I contacted RYA and wondering if ICC will replace the Gold License? Firstly let’s begin by explaining what is the International Certificate of Competence, ICC or Boat License actually is. The ICC or boat license is in reality a European Union (EU) accepted certificate through the United Nations (UN) resolution 40. Currently this has been accepted by all countries except for Belgium.

Bigun 30/10/2018 at 6:22 pm

Just got a 14 foot waverider. Do i need a licence to take her on river and lakes for a cruise and the sea for fun.

Bigun 30/10/2018 at 6:19 pm

Just got a 14ft wave rider. Do i need a licence to take her on the river for some fishing and the sea for same and fun ?,

SailingAndBoating Editor 31/07/2018 at 12:58 pm

Using your cruiser on British waterways will require licensing as in the above article. At sea, it will depend on the regulations of the country whose waters you sail in. There are some safety regulations to follow, details on this government web page

Simon 30/07/2018 at 2:13 pm

Hi I have bought a 30ft cabin cruiser for the sea do I need a skippers licence or any licence to use at sea cheers

KITTYPOP 23/05/2018 at 2:26 am

I would like to ask, if one has Dutch Citizenship, (Netherlands), do I need a permit for the Thames? Freedom of water Dutch rule/law.
How do I use it?
Regards

SailingAndBoating Editor 22/05/2018 at 12:07 pm

Insurance and mooring fees will vary. The Canal & River trust boating licence fees are here

Nelly 15/05/2018 at 9:41 pm

Looking at buying a boat but just would like to no how much a boat license is, insurance, docking fees is?

Wilson 10/05/2018 at 4:02 pm

Hi, I bought a inflatable boat 5.9m to do sea fishing as I’m new in to this what steps/ accessories it’s required by the law to go out to the sea I also have a 2 Stroke motor.
Thanks

SailingAndBoating Editor 11/04/2018 at 11:38 am

You have to be 18 to have a licence for a powered boat (for a licence issued via the Canals and Rivers Trust)

Boater 10/04/2018 at 12:58 pm

Hi I’ve been doing a lot of searching but I can’t seem to find the age you need to be to get a license. I’ve just turned 16 and was wondering if I would be able to get one or if I will have to wait until I’m 17 or 18.

Geco 25/01/2018 at 9:24 pm

Hi all. I want to buy a 17/19 ft boat to use at sea for fishing but before I made this investment I really wanted some info, for example do I need a license for it, or insurance.
Please any information you could give I would really appreciate it thanks.

Mark Wrench 23/01/2018 at 9:06 pm

Hi All, I have just purchased an 8ft Avon Typhoon RIB and a 4HP Outboard, what is the biggest outboard i can use without needing a licence?? i intend to use it on a regular basis, most weekends,
Sorry, i meant to add i will be using my rib on the local rivers and canals in cheshire

SailingAndBoating Editor 03/10/2017 at 11:34 am

You need to register your boat for use on the Thames. More information is HERE. . There are various requirements in the Adriatic regions, so it might be worth looking at individual countries etc. Here are the Croation requirements: "All boats sailing to Croatia shall possess the following original documents: - vignette - certified crew list and passenger list - certified list of persons aboard (for vessels where change of crew is foreseen while sailing in Croatia) - certificate of seaworthiness - evidence that the skipper is competent for boat handling - evidence of third party insurance policy (for vessels whose engine power exceeds 15 kW) - ownership certificate or authorization for the use of vessel"

HBboating 01/10/2017 at 9:09 am

I'd like to spend more time out on the water but I do have limited funds. Ideally I'd like to be able to take a boat out along the Adriatic Coast one day but initially would probably look at going along the Thames for day trips etc.

Are there any qualifications I need for both kinds of journeys and how do I get these?

Or do I 'just' need a licence with no real training?

As you can tell I'm very new to this so any beginner tips would be gratefully received! Thanks.

ray 23/08/2017 at 10:46 am

hi

I recently bought a new 2.3 inflatable boat from china, with the intention of using it for pleasure fishing on the river tees , it did not come with any ce certification, is this a mandatory requirement to use this boat on small rivers

thanks

SailingAndBoating Editor 24/07/2017 at 10:58 am

You don't usually need a licence in the UK to use a jet ski at sea. Some other countries and some of our inland waterways may require a licence.

xao 18/07/2017 at 2:06 pm

Do I need any kind of licence to sail with a 10 to 15 meters boat?
Thanks

stid 17/07/2017 at 12:24 pm

do I need a licence for using a ski jet at sea?

Colburn 05/07/2017 at 11:02 pm

Hi
For the past few years I have had holiday in Europe and quite often hire a 15HP boat for a few hours.
If I were to hire a boat with more power what type of licence would I require? Would I be able to use a UK licence in Europe?
How would I get this licence and how much would it cost?
Thanks in advance
Colin

RIB 19/05/2017 at 11:07 am

Please can anyone tell me the rules, regulations and costs of using a 4.5m Zodiac RIB with a Mercury 25 outboard around the coast of Italy. Thanks

Charlie 06/04/2017 at 3:05 pm

I am writing a story about boy who tries to complete the dream of he and his deceased father by restoring a sail boat to make a grand journey, his plan is to sail on his 16th birthday......alone. As an American with limited knowledge of sailing (although I am reading everyday for research), I have three questions: What is the max size boat one could even consider handling alone, what would be a great challenge as a route for this trip and lastly can you think of anything that could stop or delay a 16 year old from sailing that could create conflict to overcome in the story?

Oceanman 02/01/2017 at 8:28 pm

Hi could anyone please help me out,. If I buy let's say a sunseeker Manhattan what is the maximum size that I could buy before I need any kind a licence? And what kind of licence would I require to sail this vessel? in any location around the world, also if I chartered out the vessel to paying clients would I need a qualified captain? Or could I sail it myself, surely I would need some kind of licence to do this?

I would be very greatful if anyone could help me out with the above information, as I'm new to the yachting world, many thanks, oceanman.

SailingAndBoating Editor 09/11/2016 at 11:43 am

Note that the ICC is not necessarily a recognised licence in other countries, but many other European countries will accept it...check before you go! You can apply as an Australian resident. Here' s link to the application form.

Dutchy 08/11/2016 at 12:55 pm

Hey Guys, I am an Australian resident planning to buy a 45' motor cruiser in the U.K. and take it across to Calais to enter the European waterways via the Netherlands or Belgium. My understanding is that I require an ICC licence as proof of competence in Europe (for a U.K. citizen) however can an ICC licence be issued to a non-UK resident residing Internationally? Or is there any need if the vessel is

helcatamy 27/09/2016 at 4:59 pm

Hey I am googling and coming up with confusion! Basically we are getting an intex excursion 4 inflatable dinghy/rowing boat and will be fitting it with a 12v motor to use on River Thames in Oxfordshire. I understand we need a licence and to get a licence it appears we need insurance etc but I cannot figure out what category this type of inflatable boat will come under in order to get a quote! The whole thing will cost about £200. I've rowed a lot but always hired or gone with other people so am new to the actual owning of one. I'm getting a 30 day licence for just rowing but need to understand how to get insurance on this boat when we stick the motor on it - or indeed if we need a licence as I also read somewhere we don't need it if it is this type of motor its exempt?? Please can someone point me in the right direction so that we can be legal on the river? Thanks!!

SailingAndBoating Editor 19/09/2016 at 11:38 am

Most boat licences last 5 years. Contact the UK ship register for more information.

Tony 17/09/2016 at 11:16 am

I passed my test a quite a few years ago in Spain with an English company but never got my license but on record i had passed as i owned a 22ft mored at toraviega does your licence last like a driving licence? I think the company I used was sss serenity or ss serenity but I'm not to sure how can I find out??

Bear 21/05/2016 at 11:12 am

All I can say is this, I was given an inflatable ten foot dinghy with a 2HP outboard from a relative who was too ill to use it. I thought a day out now and again on the river with my wife would be ideal pleasure now that we are retired. However, I find that the craft is not registered, so that will be a cost of £124. It will also need a safety certificate costing £34.80. To get this I will have to have it examined by a qualified examiner, minimum cost £49.99. Then I need insurance to sail it on a river or canal, of a minimum of one million quid, costing £30.00 min. Then once all this is in place, I can apply for a 30 day river licence costing £102.00. So for a maximum of 30 days of pleasure with my wife in a ten foot rubber dinghy, which was gifted to me, it will cost me £340.79 for the first year. The reality is that if I get out in the boat three or four days a year, this will be pushing it! So this is about £130 p/day. Granted that next year it would only cost me my river licence and insurance of £130, but after giving it due financial consideration, I think I will part with the craft and go on a chartered river cruise!

Turkish 24/04/2016 at 10:46 am

I got a kayak iam wanting to put a electric outboard 50 lbs do I need another license already got one for kayak

TommyP 21/02/2016 at 4:15 pm

If you all look at the article here and then at all the posters you can see that it is clearly misleading just like all other sites where people are asking for 'simple' information.

There need be a line drawn as to what is a 'Licence' and what is a 'Licence', most of these internet pages are made up of companies telling you about 'driving a Camel in Iceland' and really only wanting to frighten you in to using their service to get a 'Licence' that you will never need.

Boat 'Handling' and boat 'Safety' are quite something else. You get up in the morning and go looking for a boat, you buy said boat and you drive it away, no 'Licence'.

You should ask the seller if it has a 'Boat safety Certificate', if it has not then you need get one, possibly from the last person who gave it one. If you have not got a sticker on your starboard side of the boat then you need get one, it is a 'Tax' not a 'Licence, you can get it online, no problem.

If you are going 'Out' of UK waters then you will need a 'Licence' to drive and use you boat in another countries waters, you will need a CEVNI too, but do not pay for one because any good school of sailing will offer one free of charge included in your course cost.

If you have bought your boat for yourself and family, no problem, if you are giving paid tours or using it as a taxi then you need ask about the correct 'Licence'. Happy Boating.

Lightfootladtwo 09/02/2016 at 11:59 am

Never under estimate the power of the seas.

Lightfootladtwo 09/02/2016 at 11:54 am

You do not need a license for coastal or open seas but need all other paperwork.

Andymagrini 12/01/2016 at 5:19 pm

Hello,
as an italian citizen but resident in the Uk and sailing in the med, I am subject to Uk law. The italian authorities suggest me to keep on board a letter / resolution that proves there is no need for a permit.
"Who Needs a Licence?
Boating around the coast or further out to sea is open to all and does not require a licence. Passage down one of Britain’s many inland waterways however requires a boating licence or registration with the appropriate authority in charge of it."

Who can help me, where do i find such a resolution?

I am finding it hard since it's something not needed in the Uk , i find no article from an official website saying 'this is not needed'....

SailingAndBoating Editor 01/09/2015 at 10:54 am

The Canals and Rivers Trust has lots of information about how to get a licence and where it can be used. With regard to the Norfolk broads tolls these are payable all vessels kept in the navigation area or adjacent waters for more than 28 days in any tolls year. So assuming you'll be on the waters for more than 28 days each year you will probably have to pay the toll.

MonicaB 31/08/2015 at 2:13 pm

I have recently purchase a Clinker 12 foot sailing dinghy, which I will keep at home, and hope to use on the Norfolk Broads. I have purchased Insurance but am confused as to what `toll or license is required to sail it. The yearly one seems to be for those that are kept on the broads. `does the toll apply to mine which I take home?
I will also be purchasing an outboard for it too.

swa Editor 28/04/2015 at 10:36 am

@swa. You need to have completed a boat safety certificate to get a licence to own a boat for use on inland waterways. This is a requirement of the Canals and Rivers trust to make sure their waterways are as safe as possible. The helmsman course is not related to this.

swa 22/04/2015 at 10:04 pm

If I understand the article correctly, I personally do not need a licence in the UK at all in order to operate a motorboat. However if I want to operate it on inland waterways, I need to get a licence for my boat accordingly. This is probably similar to the law in Germany, however German regulation requires a personal licence if operating a boat with more than 15hp (sport boat licence see). I wonder what the purpose of the helmsman course is apart from getting better boat insurance and the certificate of competence to use my boat abroad? Please correct me if I'm wrong? Thank you.

Jessica 31/01/2015 at 8:22 pm

I have a small 8ft long rowing boat with no motor, would this boat need insurance or a licence to take and use it occasionally on a canal in Yorkshire?

MIKE 14/01/2015 at 12:34 pm

I was wondering if I was to use my boat out at sea like the English channel would I need a license for my boat

docmartin Editor 29/09/2014 at 11:46 am

@chris. It's all shown in the above article mate.

Chris 26/09/2014 at 12:11 am

Hello let me know wt I have to due , to drive boats or yacht , ? How much cost me , how long time is go be the course ,then how many boats I can drive when I get my licence, thank you

SailingAndBoating Editor 18/06/2014 at 11:14 am

@ratman - Yes for larger craft (ie not small pleasure boats) you need the "Patron de Embarciones de recreo Titilo". There is a test involved in order to get the licence (both theory & practical). If you already hold a UK licence (ICC certified Yacht Master or day skipper certificate) this can be almalgamated into the spanish licence.

RatMan 17/06/2014 at 10:07 am

During a recent holiday in Spain - there was a requirement for a licence to hire a pleasure/motor boat (the smaller types didn't have that requirement). What kind of licence would I need and how would I go about getting one?

Many thanks

boner 30/10/2013 at 4:15 pm

Do I require a licence for a 16 Foot boat on the River Wye

boner 30/10/2013 at 4:12 pm

Do I require a licence for a 16 foot outboard driven on the River Wye

boner 30/10/2013 at 4:09 pm

Do I require a licence for a 16Foot boat with outboard on the river Wye

roy1 10/08/2013 at 8:15 pm

does a dinghy( two man) with a 4hp motor require a licence on the local canall

speedboatpaul 05/08/2013 at 11:08 am

can you please tell me where i can get a boats history// ssr 124715......its at sandwich boatyard//// stoner estate kent.....ive been interested in this boat now for a year...thankyou....

oscar 21/09/2012 at 10:27 am

i would like to know how if i need a licence to go round the i know there are different size boats with small outboad motor and how long would it take to get a licence to drive a larger one witch i could carry at least 4 passengers family sort of

Frank 08/08/2012 at 10:00 pm

I am considering buying a narrowboat with a view to my daughter living on it during the university term time, then hiring it out to family and friends during the summer months (not to make money, just to cover their cruising costs.) Assuming I purchase a traditional 6 berth, 58 ft narrowboat, what sort of licence would I need and how much would it cost ?

Further linked questions -
Assuming I have the correct licence what are the restrictions on a marina in allowing my daughter to live on the boat whilst it is moored there during the university term ?

Thanks for your help.

lotts 25/01/2012 at 12:59 pm

How long and how much does it cost to gain a boat license?

Thank you

Geoff 17/11/2011 at 6:10 pm

Does a very small two seater inflatable dinghy with a 4hp outboard require a licence to use rivers and/or canals?

Sheikh 01/04/2011 at 6:20 pm

This is really good info to start on, thanks. Wonder if anyone can help? I have just bought a cigar boat from a manufacturer in Germany. I live in central London St Katherines dock, so sorting out parking space was relatively easy as the private docks are part of my place. The boat is still in the factory. What should I begin doing so I can start using it in the Thames? Thanks

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