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Update from FOCA re: Small Vessel Licensing Regulations

January 26, 2026 /

The Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations (FOCA) reports that on January 6, 2026, Transport Canada (TC) implemented a new 5-year license period for pleasure craft licenses (PCL), with a $24 service fee to process new, renewed, or transferred PCL applications. There are new requirements to notify TC of changes in boat information or ownership within 30 (not 90) days. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: This is different than the “Pleasure Craft Operator Card” that is issued in your name; this update is for your boat(s). A copy of the PCL must be carried on board at all times. If you have a boat that was licensed in 1974 or earlier, you must “renew” by March 31st this year, or face fines. If licensed between 1975 and 1985, you have until the end of 2026, etc. Get all the details – including a renewal deadline chart by boat-license date – from the CanBoat website at:

www.canboat.ca/resources/boatingtips/how-to-get-a-pleasure-craft-license-for-your-boat

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