GOV.UK
You must have a boatmasters’ licence if you’re the master of certain vessels on:
- inland waters in categories A to D - eg canals, rivers, lakes and some estuaries
- ‘limited’ coastal areas - no more than 3 miles from the coast and 15 miles from where your vessel set off
You may be prosecuted and fined for not having the right boatmasters’ licence.
Find out what types and class of vessels can operate on UK inland waters.
Before you apply
Read the boatmasters’ qualifications and hours of work to find out:
- which vessels you need a boatmasters’ licence for
- what kinds of boatmasters’ licence you can apply for
- what you need to apply for a boatmasters’ licence
- alternative qualifications you can have instead of a boatmasters’ licence
You should also find out about additional local information and local knowledge that you may need as well as your boatmasters’ licence.
Who doesn’t need a licence
You don’t need a boatmasters’ licence if you’re in charge of:
- a pleasure vessel, including hire boats used as pleasure vessels
- fishing vessels
Apply for your licence
Read the boatmasters’ licence application guidance.
Download the application form for a boatmasters licence.
The application form lists the fees.
Replace your licence
Download the application form for a replacement boatmasters licence.
Replacing your licence costs £18.
Renew your licence
Your boatmasters’ licence usually lasts 5 years.
You’ll have to renew your licence annually if you’re over 65.
Renewing your licence costs £28.
Download the boatmasters’ licence renewal application form. Send it to the address on the form.
Upgrade your licence
Download the form to upgrade your licence, or add another area to your licence.
Upgrading your licence costs £28.