How to Get a Boat Registration Number in Canada — Complete Transport Canada Guide
Most boats operating in Canadian waters require either a Pleasure Craft Licence or Vessel Registration from Transport Canada. Here's how to get your boat number, what information you need, marking requirements, and how to renew or transfer your licence.
Do You Need a Boat Licence or Registration?
Transport Canada has two systems for identifying pleasure craft:
Pleasure Craft Licence (Free)
For boats with motors 10 HP or greater, regardless of boat length.
- ✓ Free (no cost)
- ✓ Issued by Transport Canada
- ✓ 8-character alphanumeric code
- ✓ 10-year validity
- ✓ Format: 12345AB or AB12345
Vessel Registration ($250)
For commercial vessels, boats over 12 metres (39.4 feet), or owner preference.
- ✓ $250 initial fee ($15/year renewal)
- ✓ Official title document (proof of ownership)
- ✓ Required for financing/loans
- ✓ 5-year validity
- ✓ Format: 12345678 (8 digits)
When You Must Have a Boat Number
Required by Law:
- ✓ Any boat with a motor 10 HP or greater
- ✓ Any pleasure craft 12 metres (39.4 feet) or longer (regardless of motor)
- ✓ All commercial vessels operating in Canadian waters
- ✓ Boats used for water sports towing (waterskiing, tubing, wakeboarding)
Penalties: Operating without proper licensing carries fines up to $1,000 under the Canada Shipping Act.
Boats That DON'T Need a Licence
- Boats with motors under 10 HP (e.g., small electric trolling motors, 8 HP outboards)
- Canoes, kayaks, and rowboats (human-powered only, no motor)
- Sailboats under 12 metres with auxiliary motors under 10 HP
- Boats used exclusively on private property (private pond/lake)
How to Apply for a Pleasure Craft Licence (Free)
Step 1: Gather Required Information
- • Boat make, model, and year
- • Hull Identification Number (HIN) — usually on transom
- • Motor manufacturer and horsepower
- • Your name, address, phone, email
- • Proof of ownership (bill of sale or previous licence)
Step 2: Apply Online (Fastest)
Visit tc.canada.ca/pleasurecraft and complete the online application form. Licence is emailed immediately (PDF). Print and laminate for on-board copy.
Step 3: Apply by Mail (Slower)
Download form TP 1332 from Transport Canada website, complete it, and mail to:
Transport Canada, Marine Safety and Security
Tower C, Place de Ville
330 Sparks Street, 10th Floor
Ottawa, ON K1A 0N5
Step 4: Apply in Person (Service Canada)
Visit any Service Canada office with your boat information and ID. They can process your application on the spot. Call ahead to confirm availability.
Pleasure Craft Licence Number Format
12345AB
or
AB12345
Your licence number is an 8-character alphanumeric code. It can be 5 numbers + 2 letters, or 2 letters + 5 numbers. This is your boat's unique identifier.
How to Mark Your Boat Number — TP 1332 Requirements
Transport Canada specifies exactly how you must display your licence number:
Where to Place Boat Registration Numbers
✅ Correct Placement
- • Upper bow (forward 50% of hull)
- • Both port and starboard sides
- • Above waterline
- • Clear of rub rails or graphics
❌ Incorrect Placement
- • Transom (back of boat)
- • Inside the boat
- • Under the waterline
- • Over vinyl graphics/wraps
Vessel Registration (Official Title)
If you want official proof of ownership (similar to a car title), you'll need Vessel Registration instead of a basic licence:
Apply online at tc.canada.ca/vessels or mail form to Transport Canada Marine Safety.
Renewing Your Pleasure Craft Licence
- Pleasure Craft Licences are valid for 10 years
- Transport Canada will mail a renewal notice to your registered address
- Renew online at tc.canada.ca/pleasurecraft (free, instant)
- Your licence number stays the same after renewal
- Update your address if you've moved to ensure you receive renewal notices
Transferring a Boat Licence (Buying/Selling)
Selling Your Boat
When you sell, provide the buyer with a signed bill of sale and your current licence. The buyer applies for a new licence in their name (free). Your old licence is cancelled.
Buying a Used Boat
Apply for a new licence using the seller's licence number and bill of sale as proof of ownership. You'll receive a new licence number. Remove the old owner's numbers from the hull and display your new numbers within 90 days.
Order Boat Registration Number Decals
We produce Transport Canada-compliant boat registration number decals. Premium marine-grade vinyl, UV-resistant, 7+ year outdoor rating. Custom sizing to meet TP 1332 specs (75mm minimum). Contrasting colours for any hull colour. Ships same day. Includes application guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my boat without a licence if I just bought it?
You have a 90-day grace period after purchase to apply for a new licence. During this time, you can operate the boat, but you must apply for your licence within 90 days. Keep your bill of sale on board as proof.
Do I need a separate licence for each boat I own?
Yes. Each boat requires its own Pleasure Craft Licence. You cannot transfer a licence from one boat to another. Apply for a separate licence for each vessel you own.
What if I change motors — do I need a new licence?
No, your licence stays valid. However, if your new motor is significantly different (e.g., upgrading from 75 HP to 250 HP), you should notify Transport Canada and update your records.
Can I display my boat number on a removable plate instead of decals?
No. Transport Canada requires the licence number to be permanently affixed to the hull. Removable plates, magnetic signs, or temporary stickers are not compliant.
What happens if my boat numbers fade or peel off?
You must replace them immediately. Operating a boat with illegible or missing numbers is a violation. Keep your licence document on board, but the numbers must be visible on the hull.