As of January 6, 2026, Transport Canada (TC) officially amended the Small Vessel Regulations to modernize pleasure craft licensing.
The most critical update for boaters this year is the transition of "lifetime" or "grandfathered" licenses (those issued before 2010 without an expiry date) into a new mandatory 5-year renewal cycle.
Key Regulation Changes for 2026
- $24 Service Fee: A new fee applies to all PCL applications, including new issues, renewals, transfers, or duplicates.
- 30-Day Notification: You must now notify TC within 30 days (down from 90) of any change in ownership, name, or address.
- Temporary License: Upon applying online, you will receive a temporary license valid for 30 days, allowing you to operate your vessel immediately while waiting for the permanent document.
Renewal Deadline Chart
If your boat has a lifetime license (issued before April 28, 2010), find your renewal deadline based on the original issue date:
| Original License Issue Date | New Expiry / Renewal Deadline |
|---|---|
| December 31, 1974 or earlier | March 31, 2026 |
| January 1, 1975 – December 31, 1985 | December 31, 2026 |
| January 1, 1986 – December 31, 1995 | December 31, 2027 |
| January 1, 1996 – December 31, 1999 | December 31, 2028 |
| January 1, 2000 – December 31, 2005 | December 31, 2029 |
| January 1, 2006 – April 28, 2010 | December 31, 2030 |
Data Source: Transport Canada (January 2026)
Important Reminders
- Carrying the PCL: You are legally required to carry a paper or electronic copy of your valid PCL on board at all times.
- Indigenous Exemptions: Individuals exercising rights under Section 35 of the Constitution Act are exempt from the $24 service fee.
- Operator Card vs. PCL: This update does not affect your Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), which remains valid for life and does not require renewal.
Does Your Boat Need a License?
Under the amended Small Vessel Regulations, a Pleasure Craft License (PCL) is mandatory if your vessel meets any of the following:
- Engine Power: It has one or more engines with a combined power of 10 horsepower (7.5 kW) or more.
- New for 2026 – Wind Power: Any wind-powered pleasure craft (sailboat) over 6 metres (approx. 19.7 feet) in length now requires a license, even if it has no motor or a small motor under 10 hp.
- Exemption: If your vessel is officially registered in the Canadian Register of Vessels, it does not require a PCL.
How to Use the Online Licensing SystemThe Pleasure Craft Electronic Licensing System (PCELS) is the fastest way to apply for a new license, renew an old one, or transfer ownership.1. Gather Required Documents- Proof of Ownership: A bill of sale or a signed declaration.
- Valid Government ID: For all owners listed on the license.
- Vessel Photo: A current, side-view colour photo of the boat (stock images are not accepted).
- Payment Method: A credit card (Visa or Mastercard) for the $24 service fee.
2. Complete the Application- Log in to the PCELS portal and upload your documents.
- Once submitted, you will receive an acknowledgment number via email.
3. Temporary Operation- This acknowledgment acts as a temporary license valid for 30 days.
- You must mark this number on both sides of the bow and carry a printed or electronic copy of the acknowledgment while operating until your permanent license arrives.
Updating Your InformationIf you change your address or name, you must update your records through the portal within 30 days. While there is a fee for renewals and transfers, there is currently no fee for simple information updates, like an address change.
