Banff Licenses & Regulations

Operators of a pleasure craft, which is described as a boat fitted with a motor and is used for recreational purposes, must carry a pleasure craft Operators Competency card at all times. Obtaining an Operator Competency card is the law and anyone without it could be subject to penalties and fines.

This legislation applies to all Canadian pleasure craft operators. It also applies to non-residents of Canada whose pleasure craft is in Canada more than 45 consecutive days. If the non-resident has obtained an operator card or equivalent by their state or country, it will be considered proof of competency. For residents, proof of competency can take three forms.

1. The operator has proof of having taken a boating safety course prior to April 1, 1999.
2. The operator has successfully completed an accredited test (with a grade of 75% or higher) and has been issed a Pleaure Craft Competency Card.
3. The operator has completed a rental-boat safety checklist for power-driven rental boats.

Once obtained the card is valid for life. All boaters are encouraged by Transport Canada to take a safe boating course before completing the test.

There are regulations concerning pets and livestock, firearms, prescription drugs, plants and meat products, alcohol, tobacco, commercial samples and anything you may leave in Canada. For detailed information on what you are allowed to bring in please click on the following link:

Bringing Goods into Canada for Personal Use