Vessel Registration Number vs PCL Number — What Is the Difference?
Vessel Registration and Licensing Regulations — Full Comparison · Federal — Canada
§The Law
SOR/2010-91 + Canada Shipping Act 2001 — Vessel Registration and Licensing Regulations — Full Comparison
“Under the Vessel Registration and Licensing Regulations, a pleasure craft may be either licensed (PCL) or registered under the Canada Shipping Act. These are two distinct schemes with different markings, documentation, and obligations.”
View official regulation text✓Plain English
Most Canadian boaters use a Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) — a federal licence number that goes on the bow (apply through Transport Canada; fees may apply). Full registration is a separate process under the Canada Shipping Act used for vessels involved in commerce, used as mortgage security, or over 15 gross tonnes. The markings and record-keeping requirements differ significantly.
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Specific Requirements
PCL: licence number on bow (75mm), certificate aboard
PCL: applied for online, no physical inspection required (fees may apply)
Registration: name on bow + stern, port of registry on stern
Registration: annual tonnage measurement, survey may be needed
Registration: registration number on main structural beam
Only one system applies — cannot be both licensed and registered
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📚Sources & Authority
Every claim on this page is backed by official government legislation and verified industry sources. Last verified: March 2026.
🏛 Official Government Sources
Pleasure Craft Licensing — Transport Canada
Transport Canada · March 2026
Official Transport Canada page for Pleasure Craft Licensing. Covers who needs a PCL, how to apply, number display requirements, and renewal.
Small Vessel Regulations — SOR/2010-91
Justice Laws Canada · March 2026
The Small Vessel Regulations define marking requirements for pleasure craft including PCL number size (75mm minimum), placement (both sides of bow), and colour contrast.
Canada Shipping Act, 2001
Justice Laws Canada · March 2026
The Canada Shipping Act is the federal legislation governing all vessel registration, safety, and compliance in Canadian waters.
🏢 Industry Organizations
All sources are official government publications or recognized industry authorities. Links verified March 2026. If you find a broken link, let us know.
See Also — Related Regulations
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Shop Boat Licence Number DecalsOr call (289) 228-7021Regulation Quick Facts
- Regulation
- SOR/2010-91 + Canada Shipping Act 2001
- Jurisdiction
- 🇨🇦 Federal — Canada
- Category
- Marine & Boating Law
What if SOR/2010-91 + Canada Shipping Act 2001 changes next year?
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