VDWS Motorboat Certificate for Engines Up to 15 PS
The German Federal Ministry of Transport has implemented extensive changes to recreational boat operator’s licenses for inland waters and the sea, which took effect in October 2012.
On inland waters for vessels up to 15 meters in length and on the high seas regardless of length, a recreational boat may be operated without a license by individuals aged 16 and older, provided that the engine power at the propeller shaft of the recreational boat does not exceed 11.03 kW (15 PS) and the vessel is not used for commercial purposes.
Maritime shipping routes
Up to 5 PS, as before, no license required with no age limit (non-commercial use). Please note: Parents are responsible for supervising their children. For vessels from 5 PS to 15 PS, the operator must be at least 16 years old. For vessels 15 PS and above, a recreational boat operator’s license for inland waters is required.
Inland waterways
On federal inland waterways, no license is required for vessels with up to 15 PS and a length of up to 15 meters for individuals aged 16 and older. For vessels with 15 PS or more, the inland recreational boat operator’s license is required. The recreational boat operator’s license for windsurfing has been abolished.
Other Waterways
On the Rhine, the requirement to hold a boating license remains in effect for vessels with 5 PS or more. The regulations for state waters and Lake Constance remain unchanged. The ministry recommends that beginners in water sports who wish to gain their first experience on the water without a recreational boating license take practice-oriented beginner courses on a voluntary basis, in which basic theoretical and practical knowledge is taught.
Basic Motorboat Training
The Ministry recommends that beginners in water sports who wish to gain their first experience on the water without a recreational boat operator’s license take voluntary, hands-on beginner courses designed to teach basic theoretical and practical knowledge. Based on this, the VDWS has developed a basic motorboat training program that can be conducted at authorized association schools. The knowledge and skills acquired are certified in the motorboat certificate for engines up to 15 PS; no exam is required.
