01/10/2026
Lets clarify. I’m seeing this everywhere where people are confused and don’t understand.
PCOC is your pleasure craft operator card, you take a course… pass the test. No expiration as of yet.
PCL is your Pleasure Craft License. This is your boat identification, aka boat license plate. The identification numbers on each side of your boat or pleasure crafts hull.
Previous this was a requirement and had a 10 yr renewal term… SUPRISE.
Your PCL when you purchase a boat or pleasure craft you have to register it with Transport Canada.
This is no different than any other vehicle used on public land / water. A licensed vehicle.
Transport Canada has made some changes for boat dealers and people who own recreational boats, officially called a Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL).