NSW Boat Licence
Get your NSW Boat Licence in one fun, practical day with Flying Fish. This hands-on course includes all required theory, on-water training, and testing, delivered by expert instructors. Suitable for adults and children aged 12+, with the option to add a Jetski (PWC) Licence when you book
Description

Flying Fish (RTO No. 46416) is a Transport for NSW approved provider of boat licence training and testing.
This course combines theory, practical instruction, and the official Boat Licence Knowledge Test into a single, structured day.
The morning focuses on the knowledge required to pass the test. In the afternoon, you’ll apply this on the water in Sydney Harbour using our purpose-built training vessels.
By the end of the course, you will have completed all required training and testing.
A Jet Ski (PWC) licence test can be added as an optional extra at the time of booking.
Course programme
NSW Boat Licence Theory Course and Test (morning session)
- Personal safety equipment (lifejackets, kill cord use, appropriate clothing)
- Boat parts and basic terminology
- Onboard safety and emergency awareness
- Types of powered vessels and propulsion systems
- Basic weather awareness (forecasts, wind, tides, sea state)
- Navigation marks and buoyage
- Collision regulations (IRPCS) and legal responsibilities
NSW Boat Licence Practical Training (afternoon session)
- Pre-departure safety checks (communications, kill cord, lifejackets)
- Low-speed handling (close quarters, docking, wind and tide awareness)
- Higher-speed manoeuvring (trim, stability, wake management, emergency stops)
- Rules of the road applied on the water (IRPCS)
- Essential seamanship (anchoring, mooring, berthing, line handling)
- Emergency procedures (man overboard recovery, distress calls)
Equipment and instructors
Training is delivered by qualified, experienced instructors using rigid inflatable training vessels.
Small group sizes ensure plenty of hands-on time and individual guidance.
Training location
Our base at Middle Harbour Yacht Club offers excellent facilities and direct access to Sydney Harbour.
Training takes place in real boating conditions, providing a practical and relevant learning environment.
Private course
Private NSW Boat Licence courses are available on request.
We can tailor a course date to suit your group, with discounted pricing available.
Groups of 5–10 people: $350 per person (full payment required at booking).
Use the “Submit enquiry” button to arrange a private course.
RYA Powerboat Level 2 – International Certificate of Competence
For an internationally recognised powerboat qualification, consider our 2-day RYA Powerboat Level 2 course.
This provides a higher level of practical training and is recognised worldwide.
What's included
- Safety equipment
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
- Foul-weather clothing (if required)
Qualifications
On successful completion, you will receive a completed application form to take to Service NSW, along with your ID, to obtain your official licence.
You can also choose to add a Jet Ski (PWC) licence by completing the additional knowledge test on the same day.
Before you start
The course is open to anyone aged 12 and up.
- Ages 16+: eligible for a full NSW Boat Licence
- Ages 12–15: eligible for a restricted licence
What next?
Marine Radio Licence and First Aid
- If you operate a marine radio in NSW, you must hold an ACMA Marine Radio Licence.
- All boat operators are strongly advised to complete a Marine First Aid course. If you are involved in towing operations (e.g. waterskiing or wakeboarding), it is mandatory for the master to hold a first aid certification.
AMSA Coxswain Grade 3
If you’re planning to tow or work commercially, we recommend doing the AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 course instead of the standard boat licence course. It includes the RYA Powerboat Level 2, recognised internationally, and allows limited commercial operation. You also won’t need to complete the general boat licence separately.
Testimonials
- Jason Crawley
- NSW Boat Licence

- “ The course was magnificent! I’m now fully addicted to the life aquatic' ”
- Martin Chafei
- NSW Boat Licence

- “If you do your boat license with Flying Fish, you will get so much more information and ways of remembering signs, radio communications, and knots—a much better way to get the license than reading the book and doing the hours. The Instructors were simply awesome. Highly recommend it…”
- Jeanette Kim
- NSW Boat Licence

- “ The instructor was awesome! Made the lessons clear, fun, and very informative. They focus on water safety and everything you need to enjoy your time out on your boat. What are you waiting for? Get a boat licence and enjoy our beautiful harbour! ”
Faq
- Booking and course information
- We recommend booking early, as spaces are limited and courses fill quickly.
- You can view our full Terms and Conditions online.
- The course is held at our training base in Sydney, with practical sessions on Sydney Harbour using our purpose-built RIBs.
- All training materials and safety equipment are provided. Please bring a valid photo ID, wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, and soft-soled shoes.
- Do I need a NSW Boat Licence?
- If you want to operate a power-driven vessel for recreational purposes on NSW waters, you must have a boat licence once the vessel exceeds 10 knots (about 18.5 km/h).
- This course provides the training and testing you need to apply for your licence through Service NSW.
- What are the steps to get a NSW Boat Licence?
- 1. Complete an approved boating safety course (like this one).
- 2. Pass the NSW Boating Knowledge Test, included in your course.
- 3. Log a minimum of 3 hours of practical boating experience (completed during the course).
- 4. Visit any Service NSW centre within 12 months, with your certificate and ID, and pay the licence fee.
- Licence duration options include 1, 3, 5, or 10 years.
- Can I get a Jet Ski (PWC) licence as well?
- Yes. You can add the PWC (Jet Ski) licence test as an optional extra ($120/person) when you book. This allows you to operate a personal watercraft in NSW legally.
- How can I prepare for the course?
- Before joining the course, review the NSW Boating Handbook and the PWC Handbook if you're taking the PWC test. These guides provide essential safety, navigation, and legal information.
- Once you're familiar with the content, try the official practice quiz to test your knowledge.
- What if I don’t pass the test or need extra help?
- The course includes study resources and practice questions to help you prepare with confidence.
- If you don’t pass the test on the day, we’ll offer support and a free resit on the same day.
- If you are unsuccessful on the second attempt you can either rebook the theory course with Flying Fish on another day or you can study in our own time and complete the test at Service NSW.
- NB - most people pass on the day, those that don't usually haven't done the preparation.
- Do I need a Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate for the NSW Boat Licence course?
- No, a Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate is not required to complete the NSW Boat Licence course or to obtain your general boat licence. However, if you plan to operate a VHF or HF marine radio in Australia, you are legally required to hold an ACMA-approved marine radio certificate.
- As using a marine radio is a standard part of safe boating, we strongly recommend completing our ACMA Marine Radio Licence (VHF/HF) course during or after your boat licence training.
- Can I use the Boat Licence commercially?
- No. The NSW Boat Licence is for recreational use only. It is not valid for operating a vessel for hire or commercial activities.
- If you need a licence for commercial or professional use, we recommend the AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 qualification instead.
- What is the RYA Powerboat Level 2?
- The RYA Powerboat Level 2 is an internationally recognised certificate that covers boat handling, navigation, safety, and seamanship in powerboats up to 10 metres.
- This certificate is included in our Coxswain Grade 3 course and can also be used for commercial endorsements or to hire boats overseas.
- Would it be better to do the AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 course?
- If you plan to tow, work commercially, or require a boat licence for professional use, we recommend the AMSA Coxswain Grade 3 course instead.
- Our Coxswain Grade 3 course includes the RYA Powerboat Level 2 certificate (internationally recognised) and meets commercial licensing requirements. You won’t need to complete a separate boat licence course.