NSW Boat & Jetski PWC Licence Course

All-Inclusive Training
No Logbook Required

Jetski

Learning

Testing

Done in just 1 day!

Book Boat & Jetski Licence Course

Already have a valid NSW Boat Licence?
See our PWC Upgrade page!

Man riding a Jet Ski or PWC, having completed the NSW Boat & Jetski Licence Course

Boat & Jetski Licence Training You Can Trust

Our training courses are highly rated by hundreds of satisfied customers:

We’re 5-Star Rated!

05:42 11 Oct 24

Fantastic course and instructor! Couldn’t fault any aspect of the Boat Licence course, from the practical on water session to the detailed theory session. Natalie did a fantastic job. Best training I have experienced!

05:20 29 Sep 24

Can’t recommend highly enough. So informative and helpful passing the exam, but more importantly giving confidence in understanding boating rules and regulations.

08:03 12 Sep 24

Absolutely amazing, simply explains everything and anything you ask! Goes through everything thoroughly and makes sure you understand everything.

07:19 12 Sep 24

Very good and friendly

00:19 08 Sep 24

I am writing to express my sincere appreciation and admiration for the outstanding performance of the coach in today's General Boating Course. In particular, I believe the coach named Steven (if I heard it correctly) did an exceptional job.During the on-board practice, Steven effectively broke the ice and enlivened the atmosphere. He managed to be humorous and engaging while still covering all the training contents. I must admit that these two hours were extremely enjoyable.In the subsequent courses and tests, Steven demonstrated a high degree of professionalism and patience. His expertise and calm demeanor made the learning process smooth and effective.I am truly impressed by Steven's abilities and dedication. His efforts have made this boating course a memorable and valuable experience.Thank you once again for having such an excellent coach on your team.

06:08 28 Aug 24

Amazing experience! Our instructor Paul was thorough, patient and he really took the time to make sure everyone learnt what was required every step of the way. One of the nicest blokes you'll ever meet.Awesome Job ABC

05:08 26 Aug 24

Really good place to do your boat training, the teacher was so clear and helpful.100% recommend this place.

08:08 25 Aug 24

Highly recommend going with ABC boating for any boat/PWC training/licenses. Very thorough, professional, patient and our instructor Paul adapted to everyone’s skill level and needs whilst making learning fun, enjoyable and making the learning process easy and simple.

Andrew Fitzgerald

10:02 18 Aug 24

I did the general boat license course with ABC today, John our instructor was fantastic, very patient and continuously offered guidance throughout the day to make sure everybody understood the ins & outs. He offered up more information than you need to just pass the course and in doing so, makes sure you start out with a decent amount of skills & understanding of the water to make your first outings on a boat safe and enjoyable. 10/10, will recommend ABC to anyone looking to get their license. Thanks again John & ABC Sydney!

Salwa Benmaarouf

02:02 11 Aug 24

As a first-time boat driver, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Paul was absolutely amazing, he took the time to explain everything clearly and shared extra valuable insights beyond the standard guidebook. A big thank you to the entire team for making the booking process so smooth and efficient. I highly recommend these guys for anyone looking to get their boat licence!

Matthew Rudland

05:19 08 Aug 24

Fantastic company. Very knowledgeable and first class equipment. If you’re serious about getting your licence. These guys will get you there!

10:44 02 Jul 24

Had a great time in the process of receiving my licence. Instructor was one of the nicest people I’ve met and his teaching was thorough. Highly recommend as anyone can pass the test with ABC’s methods and there was plenty of information not necessarily in the test study guide that is essential for boating.

05:31 30 Jun 24

Everything was clearly explained and lots of fun. Ibrahim was a fantastic teacher and was lots of help, would definitely recommend.

Nathaniel Steward

03:02 24 Jun 24

Attended a 1 day general boat licence course with ABC. They are a little expensive compared to other options but Ibraham was a great teacher and gave us lots of helpful ways to remember the maritime rules and signals. Highly recommend.

06:53 15 Jun 24

The best way to get your boat license. So professional and knowledgeable teachers.

19:50 20 May 24

Great course and fantastic instructor which went through all detail on the water and classroom to help me pass the test at the end of the day.

05:34 19 May 24

Fantastic day with Ibrahim on the water and in the classroom, thoroughly knowledgeable and delivered the training in an easy to follow and enjoyable manner.The course was very well structured, flowed and was exceptionally well organised, a credit to Ibrahim and the entire team.I highly recommend them to anyone needing a boat licence or any other training they offer.

Barbara Rearden

05:27 19 May 24

Excellent way to learn what you need to safely enjoy boating in NSW instructor had so much knowledge and communicated to everyone in the class in a way we all understood. Would recommend this to anyone wanting to get a boat licence

05:24 04 May 24

Great fun today! Ibrahim was a great instructor!!

09:53 15 Apr 24

Absolutely a fantastic company to use for your licensing requirements. All the instructors were helpful, knowledgeable, and really took the time to make sure you learnt what was required. A really easy going team that make you feel comfortable so you can pass. Great work ABC.

08:55 14 Apr 24

We completed our theory and practical today with Ibrahim and it was fantastic. Ibraham was very knowledgeable and engaging and his style really helped me in learning all the theory aspects. His instructions on the boat were also very clear and I felt confident and safe throughout. Thank you for a great experience, Ibrahim!

07:10 08 Jan 24

Highly recommended - excellent way to spend a day on the water and in the classroom learning. Instructors provided quality practical advice all day. Hands on experience and everything you need to know. Great delivery style - endless tips - non-judgemental - professional approach.

Andrei Loginovskiy

01:31 29 Oct 23

Amazing experience!Our coach Ibrahim was a rock star: he delivered one of the most engaging and enjoyable learning I ever had experienced, lots of practical advices, very attentive and just a great person.You learn theory to pass tests, they share heaps of practical knowledge. Just practice alone worth the money spent.I will for sure recommend to anyone and has recommended to my friends already.

Matthew Lienert

04:49 20 Oct 23

Fantastic day when I went to ABC Australian Boating College, it was so much fun we went straight out onto the boat took turns with control of the boat and instructions and explanation was clear and concise. I am enthusiastic to getting my boat with further training and settling in on my own vessel, (extra charge of course! Hehe) You will love every minute of it receiving so much freedom enjoyment with peace and tranquillity on the water.. Adam is really passionate and helpful about anything Boating, he is a wealth of knowledge after obviously many years he has had on the water. My rating for him is AAA5 Stars!Book your boat license in with him today. It really is like ABC very easy to learn from him on the water one off the water.

Who is the Boat & Jetski Course for?

This course gets you qualified for your combined NSW Boat & PWC Licence in a single day, and is essential for those intending to ride, buy or rent a Jet Ski.

You must hold a Boat Licence to get a PWC Licence, so doing this course with ABC Sydney qualifies you for both of them at once – and allows you to ride a Jet Ski, Sea-Doo, or a motor-powered hydrofoil!

Get a shortcut straight to the water with everything you need – we include all the practical training, the theory face-to-face in the classroom, and the tests.

All the hard stuff becomes easy with ABC!

Watch this video on YouTube

Watch Our Free Training Videos

Should I Do The Boat & Jetski Licence Course?

Only
Boat
Licence

Boat &
PWC
Licence

Drive A Boat Above 10 Knots

Yes

Yes

Can You Get Boat Insurance?

Yes

Yes

Jet Ski, Sea‑Doo, or WaveRunner

No

Yes

Can You Get Jetski Insurance?

No*

Yes

Tow Up To 3 People Behind PWC

No

Yes

Confident With Both Types Of Vessel

?

Yes

Drive A Boat + PWC At Full Speed

No

Yes!

*Driver must be Fully Licenced to legally operate a PWC and for claim eligibility

Get your NSW Boat & Jetski Licence in just 4 easy steps!

1

Practical Boating
Experience

A student learning how to drive a boat during a NSW Boat & Jetski Licence Course

No need for a logbook – do your prac in 1 go!
On-water sessions all around Sydney
3 comfortable & modern vessels

2

Classroom
Session

An Instructor teaching students in the classroom as part of the NSW Boat & Jetski Licence Course

Fantastic training by expert boaties
Frequently updated presentation
Demonstrations, videos, and more

3

Boat & PWC
Knowledge Tests

A Person sitting the Test or Exam on a touchscreen Tablet during the NSW Boat & Jetski Licence Course

Sit the Boat & PWC Tests with ABC
If you don’t pass, come back another day
No additional cost for test attempts

4

Get a NSW Boat
& Jetski Licence

A person holding a Boat & PWC Licence, having successfully passed the NSW Boat & Jetski Licence Course

Get fully qualified when you pass the course
Lodge form at Service NSW & pay the fee
Get your NSW Boat & PWC Licence and ride!

Know a thrill seeker?
Give the gift of a Boat & Jetski Licence Course!

Buy a Gift Voucher

Love the idea of getting your Boat & Jetski Licence, without the crowds?

We can organise a private course just for you, family, or friends!

About Private Courses

1

Practical Boating Experience

Boat & Jetski Prac Requirement

Your training begins aboard one of our comfortable, modern vessels, where we take you through all the info you need to know for the Boat Licence section.

It takes about 2 hours out on Sydney’s waterways, and means you won’t have to stuff around with getting a logbook filled out.

Boating Practical Session Topics

Trip Prep

Get yourself on and off the water safely

Navigation

Know where to go and how to get back

Boat Handling

Low & High Speed driving, Man Over-Board Drills, Anchoring, Beaching, and more

Will I get to drive a Jetski on the day?

The NSW Boat & PWC Licence only requires theoretical knowledge which we’ll cover in the classroom, so we won’t be getting you out on a Jetski on the day.

There’s no need to feel like you’re missing out, (though your wetsuit and cozzies might) as we go over these topics to make sure you’re sorted:

Jetski/PWC Steering

Learn how the jet of water affects handling and how it’s different to driving a boat

Lifejacket wear on a PWC

Not sure what type of lifejacket to wear while riding? We’ll make it easy to remember

PWC Restricted and Prohibited Zones

Don’t get caught by the Marine Area Command, we’ll share places you can ride with no restrictions

2

Classroom Session: Boat & Jetski Licence

Boat & Jetski Theory Training

If you thought our Boat Licence Course had a lot of stuff to learn, you’re in for a treat – there’s even more here!

Don’t worry though, our expert instructors will get you sorted in the classroom for both the Boat and the Jetski/PWC rules.

ABC Pre-Study Guide & Practice Tests

Start at home or on the go with our learner guide, which gets you a solid foundation of Boat & PWC knowledge.

The guide takes about 1 hour to read before your course, and it primes you with all the words you’ll need to know for on-water vessels (especially the fun ones).

Then there’s 20 minutes of NSW Boat & Jetski Practice Tests, so you won’t have any surprises on the day.

In-Person Presentation

Join us in the classroom to learn the waterway rules with the aid of safety equipment demos, videos, animations, and images.

The teaching is split into two parts:

Boat Licence Theory

Learn right of way on rivers, lakes, and dams

Follow the channel marks and avoid collisions

Know the rules involving objects in the water

PWC Licence Theory

Learn the required PWC safety equipment

Don’t get caught out in a surf or swimming area

Avoid behaviours that’ll get you in hot water

Become a responsible PWC rider!

3

NSW Boat & PWC Knowledge Tests

Sit Both Tests With ABC

Once you’ve learned all the content, it’s time to sit the NSW Boat & Jetski Knowledge Test.

You’ll sit the multiple choice exams on a touchscreen tablet in our closed-book classroom environment, with our supportive trainers nearby

65 Questions, 3 Sections

Boat Section A

Passing mark is 20/20

Boat Section B

A little more lenient at 24/30

PWC Section C

Focusing on the PWC, a pass is at 12/15

The ABC “Fair Go” Policy

We truly believe in the quality of our training (and our incredibly high pass rate), but even the best student can need a helping hand on an off day.

No worries though – you’re covered by the Australian Boating College Fair Go Policy:

We’ll give you 2 attempts at the NSW Boat Licence Test, and 2 more for the NSW PWC Licence Test, on the day of your course.

If you don’t pass either of the tests, you can come back another day for 2 more tries at no extra cost.

4

Get your NSW Boat & PWC Licence

Lodge Your Form at Service NSW

Now you’ve completed your full-day course with ABC, just take your completed NSW Boat & PWC Licence Application Forms to any Service NSW branch, no appointments needed.

Simply enter the branch, select “Maritime” on the touchscreen for a numbered ticket, give them your form when called, pay the licence fee, and get your licence on the spot.

Get Out On The Water

You’re now qualified and equipped to take your Jetski or Boat out on the water, congratulations!

Next Steps in Your Boat & Jetski Journey:

If you want to hone your boating skills or learn any advanced boating techniques, check out our other training courses:

Personalised Boating Lessons

Loved our training and want more? Get advanced tips and tricks for the use of your own boat

Marine Radio Licence

We recommend the Marine Radio Licence Course if your boat is fitted with a VHF Radio

Coxswain Grade 3 Near Coastal

Thinking of a career in the Marine Industry? Read more about commercial qualifications here

NSW Boat & Jetski Licences
as easy as A, B, C!

Frequently Asked Questions

NSW Boat & Jetski
PWC Licence Course – $535

Save $225!

Includes 3 Courses:

Practical Boating Experience – $300
NSW Boat Licence Theory & Test – $260
NSW Jetski Licence Upgrade Course – $200
Total if purchased separately – $760

Licence processing fees are charged separately, and can be seen on the NSW Government fees page.

Are there any pre-requisites? Do I need to have boating experience first?

There are no pre-requisites for the NSW Boat & Jetski PWC Licence Course, and the course is designed so that beginners can successfully complete the training.

It is recommended to complete the pre-study guide and practice test before the day – both are included in the enrolment confirmation email.

Do I have to pay before the course? Can I pay on the day?

Due to limited space available on our boats we take payment in full at the time of booking.

We do not accept cash payments.

What if I have a hard time with reading or learning?

If you have trouble with Learning, Literature and Numeracy, please let us know before your course so we can best plan to help you.

We are happy to discuss and always strive to support everyone where possible.

Which language is used during the Course? Can it be translated?

All Course material is provided in English, and all training content is also delivered in English.

There is no opportunity to have a translated version, or to bring an interpreter with you to the course.

Please get in touch with us if you’d like to know more about your options for other languages.

Do I need to know how to swim? What happens if I fall in?

You don’t need to be able to swim, or be a strong swimmer, to attend the course.

We’ll ask all passengers to wear a comfortable inflatable lifejacket upon boarding, which will keep you afloat if it touches the water.

We’ve never had anyone test that for us; but we do get the lifejackets serviced regularly just in case.

Do I also need to do a Boating Safety Course?

The Boating Safety Course was a requirement for getting a boat licence, however as of 1 July 2016 this is no longer necessary.

You’ll get everything you need to qualify for your licence with our standard NSW Boat & Jetski Licence Course.

What time does the course start?

The NSW Boat & Jetski Licence Course typically goes from 7:45AM-5:00PM.

We meet at 7:45AM for an 8:00AM departure on the water, which may be earlier during Summer.

We’ll let you know of any changes by email and SMS before the course starts.

What is the typical course schedule like?

Practical First (Most Courses)

7:45AM – Meet at practical location
8:00AM – Depart for on-water training
10:30AM – Practical session ends
11:30AM – Classroom session begins
3:30PM – Boat & PWC Test begins
5:00PM – Course to end by 5PM

Classroom First (Some Courses)

7:45AM – Meet outside the classroom
8:00AM – Sign in and begin the training
11:45AM – Classroom session ends
12:00PM – Boat & PWC Test begins
2:30PM – Head to the practical location
5:00PM – Course to end by 5PM

What happens if it’s raining or the weather is bad?

We make every effort to go ahead in all weather conditions including rain, so make sure you bring a raincoat.

A towel and a change of clothes is also a good idea to keep in your car.

What clothes do I wear?

Consider the forecast and dress for the time of day you’ll be out – it can be cool in the early morning, and gets hot quick in Summer.

Some venues have a dress code where thongs, singlets, offensive graphic printed shirts, and hats are not allowed indoors. Dress as you would for an RSL Club and you’ll be fine.

Wear comfortable regular clothes, and closed-toe shoes such as runners or joggers (not thongs or sandals).

What do I need to bring with me?

All Students

Bring your ID (such as a NSW Drivers Licence, Passport, Medicare Card).

On The Boat

Wear closed-toed shoes such as runners or joggers. All safety equipment is provided, so don’t bring your own lifejacket.

In The Classroom

Bring a pen & notepad if you’d like to take notes (the Exam is closed book and you won’t be able to refer to them during the Test).

For The PWC Licence

The PWC Licence requires two passport-acceptable photos, which are roughly the size of your thumb.

These will be used on the application form on the day and must show your face clearly – visit the Australian Passport Office Photo Guidelines for examples.

You can get these done at an Australia Post, a Chemist, a Camera Shop, or an Officeworks.

Are lunch and food included?

We don’t include food during the course, but most Venues will have food and drink for sale. You are welcome to pack a lunch or to purchase if available.

Where do I find the venue address and information?

This will be included in the confirmation email upon enrolment, and can also be seen on our venues page.

How do I get between the Practical and Theory locations?

There is plenty of parking at every location for your car.

Transport is not provided by us between locations on the day – our trainers are too busy looking after the boats and can’t provide a lift.

Some students ask for a ride from others, or take a taxi/Uber between locations.

What will I get when I complete the Course?

When you finish the NSW Boat & Jetski Licence Course with the Australian Boating College Sydney, you’ll receive two forms that show you’re fully qualified:

Application for General Boat Driving Licence

Application for a Personal Watercraft Driving Licence

The forms can’t be used to drive a boat until you lodge them at Service NSW and pay the Licence fee.

How long do I have to lodge my form?

The NSW Boat & PWC Licence Forms are valid for 12 months only, and due to our training agreement cannot be extended or re-dated for any reason.

I’ve lost my form and it’s been less than a year, can I get it replaced?

If it has been less than 12 months since your course we can remake your paperwork by sighting your ID again.

This involves a fee – please get in touch with us for details.

Do I need to take a boating certificate to the RTA, or RMS, or Service NSW?

Certificates used to be issued and were required as proof of course completion, however as of 2016 they are no longer needed – you will only require the finished application form to successfully apply at the RTA/RMS/Service NSW Branch.

How long is the NSW Boat & Jetski Licence valid for?

The NSW Boat & PWC Licence forms you receive at the end of the course can be redeemed at Service NSW for 1, 3, 5, or 10 years.

Within 6 weeks of expiry you will get a notice to renew the Licence.

If it has expired you have up to 5 years to renew the Licence.

After 5 years you will need to fully requalify – it would be like you never had one.

How much is the NSW Boat & PWC Licence fee?

Licence processing fees are charged separately, and a list of prices can be seen on the NSW Government Fees Page.

What are the limitations of the NSW Boat & PWC Licence?

Boat Licence

There are no limitations on the size, power, or speed of vessel that you can drive with the Boat Licence.

However, you cannot operate a vessel for any commercial purpose – you can’t sell tours, take guests for an on-sea holiday, or drive the Manly Ferry.

There are also limitations on Licence holders aged 12, 13, 14, and 15, detailed in the “Kids and Juniors Under 18” section further down the page.

PWC Licence

There are no limitations on this Licence, other than those that apply to kids, or specific rules around PWC restricted areas.

My NSW Car Driving Licence is suspended, what now?

A suspended Car Licence will not prevent you from qualifying for and receiving a Boat & PWC Licence, as they are separate Licences.

If you redeem your paperwork and decide to combine both Licences into one, and then later have one affected by a suspension, they will issue you a replacement card for the unaffected half.

Read more about this on the NSW Government’s Combined driver and boat licence page.

Is the NSW Boat & PWC Licence recognised internationally?

Some countries do recognise the Boat & PWC Licence for the purposes of driving or hiring a boat or jetski, however it is not universally accepted and many countries require other qualifications.

We recommend contacting the charter company and confirming the type of qualification that they need as your first port of call.

What is the minimum age for the course?

You must be 12 years or older to apply for the Licence at Service NSW, but you can complete the course from 11 years – make sure you set a calendar reminder to lodge your form as it is only valid for 12 months.

Does an adult need to be there on the day?

Yes, an adult needs to be present to accompany a minor at most of our Venues – RSL Clubs, Golf Clubs, and Yacht Clubs all require under 18s to be with an adult while inside.

An adult may also be needed for transportation between locations, which is not provided on the day.

How do I get a Junior Boat & PWC Licence?

The Junior Boat & PWC Licence is now included as part of the standard combined NSW Boat & PWC Licence, and the requirements for it are the same as an adult licence.

What are the Under 16 restrictions on the Licence?

Boat Licence

The NSW Government website states that for a Boat Licence holder between 12 and 16:

Low Speed

Daytime

Under 10 knots

No Adult Required

You can drive a boat under 10 knots alone without another boat licence holder, during daylight hours for personal use

Medium Speed

Daytime

10-20 knots

Adult Is Required

You must have a person aged 16 or over with a valid Boat or PWC licence present in the boat to drive a speed of 10 knots or more, during daylight hours

High Speed

Night

Above 20 knots

No Races, No Towing

You must not drive a vessel/boat:

at a speed greater than 20 knots (approximately 37km/hour), or
in any race, display, regatta, exhibition or similar operation, or
between sunset and sunrise, or
while the vessel is towing anyone.

PWC Licence

PWC Licence holders between 12 and 16:

Low Speed

Daytime

Under 10 knots

No Adult Required

You can drive a PWC under 10 knots without another Licence holder during daylight hours for personal use

Medium Speed

Daytime

10-20 knots

Adult Is Required

You must have a person aged 16 or over with a valid PWC licence present on the back of the vessel to drive a speed of 10 knots or more, during daylight hours

High Speed

Night

Above 20 knots

No Races, No Towing

You must not drive a PWC:

at a speed greater than 20 knots (approximately 37km/hour), or
in any race, display, regatta, exhibition or similar operation, or
between sunset and sunrise, or
while the vessel is towing anyone.

When do the restrictions end?

These restrictions lift automatically on the 16^th birthday, and it becomes an unrestricted adult Licence.

If you’d like to know more about the restrictions please refer to the NSW Government page on Boat & PWC Licences.