NSW boat licence
About the licence
A NSW boat licence allows you to operate a powered recreational vessel at 10 knots or more on NSW waterways. It is officially known as a General Boat Driving Licence (GBL) and is issued by Transport for NSW.
You must be 12 years or older to obtain a NSW boat licence, with special restrictions applying to licence holders under 16.
Before applying for your licence, you’ll need to complete the required boating safety education, successfully pass the NSW boat licence knowledge test, and meet the required practical boating experience requirements.
Once licensed, you’ll be ready to enjoy NSW waterways while having the knowledge you need to boat safely and responsibly.
Let's get you licensed!
Book your NSW boat and PWC licence course, get qualified and enjoy your time on the water!
Let's get you licensed!
Book your NSW boat and PWC licence course, get qualified and enjoy your time on the water!
1. Complete the course
Attend one of our NSW boat licence courses where our accredited trainers will take you through the required boating safety education and official knowledge test.
Once successfully completed, you’ll receive your licence qualification paperwork.
2. Complete your logbook
Complete at least 3 boating trips with one of your mates, family members, collegaues etc; anyone who has who holds and has held a NSW boat licence for at least 3 years.
The logbook eases you the water, letting you practice at your own pace.
3. Head into Service NSW
Once you have successfully completed the course and your logbook, take both sets of paperwork to any Service NSW centre, provide the your ID and pay the licence fee.
Your NSW boat licence will immediately be issued — there’s no further testing required.
Ready to hit the water?
Book your NSW boat and PWC licence course and get one step closer to getting out there.
Ready to hit the water?
Book your NSW boat and PWC licence course and get one step closer to getting out there.