Canadian Boating Requirements
In coordination with the Castlegar Squadron of the Western Canada Inland District of Canadian Power & Sail Squadrons, Spokane Sail & Power Squadron is able to offer training and full certification for local boaters who want or need their Canadian "Pleasure Craft Operator's Card" (PCOC) or the Canadian "Restricted Operator's Certificate (Maritime)" (ROC(M)). These are required by Transport Canada for many U.S. boaters who spend any extended period of time boating in Canadian waters on Canadian-registered boats.
As of September 15, 2009, all operators of any Canadian-registered motorized pleasure craft in Canadian waters must be able to demonstrate proof of competency. A Canadian Coast Guard "Pleasure Craft Operator Card" (PCOC) is accepted throughout Canada as proof of competency. You should obtain your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) before you operate a Canadian-registered boat. After successfully writing the test, you will receive a one-year complimentary CPS Associate Membership. The Canadian Power & Sail Squadrons Operator Card is the only Canadian card accredited by the National Association of Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) in the United States. The CPS Operator Card is the only PCOC recognized by the United States Coast Guard.
The "Restricted Operator's Certificate (Maritime)" (ROC(M)) is a Canadian Federal government-issued certificate that allows you to operate a marine VHF radio in Canada. The ROC(M) is required for anyone using a marine VHF radio or other marine radios on a boat registered in Canada. Each person on the boat who will use the radio needs his/her own card. There are significant fines if you are found using a VHF or marine radio without your card. In addition, if you received your ROC(M) card before the new Digital Selective Calling was introduced, then you are encouraged to return and get your DSC endorsement for your ROC card.
Again, course materials, training, and testing for both the PCOC and ROC(M) are available right here in Spokane. For information and/or appointments, call (509)328-6165 or e-mail jimroeber@comcast.net or write or stop by the Spokane Sail & Power Squadron office at 929 W. Jackson Ave., Spokane WA 99205.