How to Get Your Boat Licence in WA
Tuesday, April 9, 2024
If you’re looking to get your boat licence in WA, we’ve got you covered. In Western Australia, the marine licence is called a Recreational Skipper’s Ticket (RST). Whether you’re new to boating or making the switch to WA’s pristine waters, understanding how to legally skipper a vessel is key. This guide will take you through the steps to secure your RST, so you can confidently take the helm and enjoy all that WA’s waterways have to offer.
Understanding the Recreational Skipper’s Ticket (RST)
The RST is a mandatory requirement for anyone aiming to be in charge of a personal water craft or recreational vessel powered by an engine greater than 6 hp within Western Australian waters. As with a car licence, the Department of Transport is responsible for processing and issuing RST’s. This credential underscores the importance of safety and proficiency on the water. To legally operate a power boat, the skipper must carry the RST at all times while navigating.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for an RST, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 14 years of age.
- Demonstrate medical fitness and meet eyesight requirements.
- Provide acceptable forms of identification.
- Minors (under 18) must submit a letter of consent from a parent or guardian.
How to Acquire Your RST
Acquiring your RST involves a combination of preparation and assessment. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Preparation
While attending a formal training session isn’t mandatory, it’s highly recommended for those new to boating or seeking a comprehensive understanding of navigational and safety protocols. Alternatively, candidates can opt to self-study using the RST Workbook and gain practical experience under the guidance of a supervising skipper.
The Assessment
The RST assessment consists of both theory and practical components and must be conducted by an authorised assessment provider. The Department of Transport maintains a list of authorised RST providers, which you can find here.
- Theory Test: This involves answering 40 multiple-choice questions, with a minimum of 34 correct responses required to pass. The test covers essential boating safety and regulations.
- Practical Assessment: Conducted on the water, this test evaluates your boating skills and ability to handle unexpected situations. Out of 62 criteria, candidates must successfully demonstrate competence in at least 56. The practical assessment includes 11 key tasks and typically lasts about an hour.
Upon successful completion, the assessor will issue an interim certificate, with the official RST card arriving by mail within two months.
Recognised Boat Licences and Qualifications
If you hold a valid boating qualification from another Australian state, you may be eligible for direct RST issuance without undergoing the assessment. Recognised qualifications include specific boat and personal watercraft licences from states such as New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria, among others.
Equally, the RST is a nationally recognised certificate of competency that proves you can safely operate a powerboat, even in other states.
Costs Associated with Getting an RST
Although the Western Australian government does not impose fees for the RST itself, candidates must cover the costs of the assessment and any preparatory training. These fees vary among providers, allowing for some flexibility in finding a suitable option. Additionally, a fee applies for the re-issue of a lost RST card, a crucial item to have on hand while boating. However, you do not have to pay any ongoing fees to hold your RST and are not required to renew it – once you’ve got it, you’ve got it.
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