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Watersports
Use of a PWC can be a little confusing with people; while a vehicle, it’s not a boat and it’s obviously not on the road. So, does that mean anyone can jump on as the driver? The answer, for the safety of everyone, is no. Just like other vehicles, PWCs require licences, and additional training. The major difference with a PWC compared to other vehicles though, is that the younger minimum age to standard vehicle licences, and the required pre-licencing. Here’s everything you need to know about getting your PWC licence.
A personal watercraft licence is an extension of a boat licence. To obtain one you need to have a valid General Boat Driving Licence, which requires at least three logged trips in a practical experience in a logbook and the successful completion of the General Boat Licence Knowledge Test. Boat licences are typically obtained as a minimum requirement for driving recreational water vessels of 10 knots (18.5km/h) or higher in NSW.
To gain a PWC licence, you need to additionally undertake the successful completion of the PWC Knowledge Test. If you’ve done this with an Authorised Training Provider, you just need to submit your application to a service centre with the applicable proof of completion paperwork.
In NSW, the minimum age for a PWC licence is 12 years old. However, if you (or your child) is under 16, additional restrictions apply.
They must:
Not exceed a speed greater than 20 knots (37km/h)
Not be involved in any racing activities, including (but limited to) display, exhibition, or regatta.
Not ride in the hours between sunset and sunrise (daylight hours only).
Not ride the vessel while towing anyone else.
If the PWC is exceeding 10 knots for a sub 16 year old driver, they must have a PWC licence holder who is 16 years old or older, present on the jet ski.
Licence fees vary between boat and PWC licence, and the length of time you wish to hold the licence. It can be anywhere from around $270 (combined boat and PWC requirement fees) right up to over $700 if you want a longstanding licence (up to 10 years). You may already hold a boat licence, and therefore the PWC licence fee is all that applies.
You can find the full fee list breakdown on the NSW Government website
Ready to get your new PWC? Or need to book in your current PWC for a service? Talk to Sutto’s today and we’ll have you sorted in no time.
