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Do You Need a License to Drive a Yacht?

May 15, 2021

For those who enjoy working on the open ocean, getting a captain’s license has probably crossed your mind. At Yacht Management, we believe this is a great decision and an excellent opportunity. Whether you own a yacht and are looking for extra cash or are a deckhand interested in learning a new skill, having a license to drive a yacht offers a world of possibilities in the merchant mariner world. 

Our Fort Lauderdale yacht management company has put together a guide with everything you need to know about getting a license to drive a yacht. 

 

Who Needs a Captain’s License? 

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To keep it simple, anyone interested in being paid to drive a yacht is required to have a captain’s license. The U.S Coast Guard requires that any operator of a water vessel chartering passengers-for-hire take a boating safety course and have a boat captain’s license. 

 

How Long is a License to Drive a Yacht Good For? 

After successfully passing the captain’s exam and fulfilling all requirements, your captain’s license will be valid for up to five years. After five years, if you wish to continue chartering passengers-for-hire and are getting paid for yacht services, you will have to retake the captain’s exam.

 

Types of Boat Captain’s Licenses 

 

Before getting a license to drive a yacht, there is one crucial aspect to consider before applying. Different types of boat captains’ licenses. The boat driving license you qualify for depends on your boating experience to ensure you follow the most essential boat safety requirements.  

 

The different boat captain licenses assess where you can operate a vessel and the tonnage of boats that you qualify to operate. 

  • Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vehicles (OUPV) 
  • Master Inland
  • Master Near Coastal 

 

A captain’s license to drive a yacht is an excellent opportunity to join the merchant mariner world. It allows freedom, travel experience, and career options within your specific niche. 

Stress-Free Yacht Ownership Services in South Florida 

At Yacht Management, we specialize in complete yacht care and offer a full-service boatyard in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Our licensed yacht technicians provide seamless South Florida boat bottom cleaning services and yacht bottom painting for stress-free ownership of your personal water vessel. Contact us today or call (954) 941 – 6447 today to learn more about our premium-priced yacht management services

 

Additional Readings:

A Discussion Led by Female Leaders in Yachting 

Prevent the Spread of COVID Onboard a Yacht

What to Know Before Buying a Yacht  

Sources:

MITAGS – How to Get Your Captain’s License 

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