Boat (RMDL) Licence
To gain a boat licence in Queensland, the following steps are completed.
1. Completing the online theory course.
The online theory course for the Recreational Marine Drivers Licence (boat) is completed at your own pace though our structured online learning software. Whether you’re a novice, have had previous experience on the water or would like to complete a refresher course, this course will provide you with the basic knowledge to safely manage a recreational vessel. Topics covered in the theory session include: Trip Planning, Navigation, Weather/Tides and Emergency Management.
2. Attend a practical training and assessment session.
On completion of the online theory course, the next step is to attend a practical training and assessment session. On the day of this session, students complete a written assessment which involves a 50 question multiple choice theory assessment (45mins to complete) with a 100% pass requirement. On successful completion of the written assessment, the practical training and assessment involves an on-water practical session which includes demonstration, practice and assessment of tasks. To be deemed competent, students must successfully complete all tasks to basic proficiency standard.
Some of the practical activities you will need to be competent in are:
• man overboard drill
• Safely approach a floating object
• port and starboard turn on and off the plane
• figure 8 manoeuvre on and off the plane
• berthing and unberthing
• general navigation and control of the ship
• operate at 6 knots or less.
As per Boatsafe requirements, once you have completed the online theory component, you have three months to complete the practical training and assessment day. If you don't book within this time frame your theory certificate will expire and the course will need to be completed again.
We encourage you to practice driving a boat with another licenced skipper before arriving at a BoatSafe course - you may not be competent in driving the boat in just one day.
Total cost of the boat licence is $300.
This fee is split into two payments. On registration of the online course $200 will be charged. The remaining payment of $100 is made on the day of your assessment.
Online Course
Our online course covers all of the theory needed to complete your boat licence. Benefits of this option include the flexibility to complete this in the comforts at home in a time frame that best suits.
Combined boat and jet ski
You can complete your boat and jet ski licences in the one course. Click below to visit our boat and jet ski licence course page.
Course Dates
Our main training room is located at office #50 in Gold Coast City Marina. Full airconditioned facilities with an easy walk onto the marina and departure to the Coomra River. Courses run every week, check out our course dates.
