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Obtain boat license

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Motorboats (Category A) and sailing vessels (Category D)

How to get your boat license

Ten general requirements for obtaining the driver's license in Switzerland:

1

Check category

    The theory for both categories is covered with this software.

    Motorboats (Category A)

    This category is required to operate a boat with motorization of more than 6.0 kW (8HP). On Lake Constance, this license is already required from a power output of 4.4 kW (6HP).

    Sailing vessels (Category D)

    This category is required to operate a sailing vessel with a sail area of more than 15 m2. On Lake Constance, this license is already required from a sail area of more than 12 m2.

    If the vessel is also equipped with a motor of more than 6.0 kW (8 HP) power, you also need category A (motor vessels).

    For Lake Constance, this applies already from a power output of 4.4 kW (6HP).

2

Meet requirements

    Check age

    You must be at least 18 years old.

    Take eye test

    The eye test must not be older than 24 months and must be conducted by a Swiss optician/doctor.

    Obtain medical certificate

    In the following cases you need a medical certificate:

    • Over 65 years and/or with disabilities
    • Insufficient hearing ability
    • Other limiting or health impairments

    The search for recognized doctors as well as all information about the requirements for driving fitness can be found at www.medtraffic.ch

3

Apply for theory test admission

    Detailed information about the cantonal procedures can be found on the website of the maritime authority of your canton of residence.

    Usually you will find an official application form there which you must submit first.

    Once your data is recorded, you will receive admission to the theory test.

4

Complete theory test

    Preparation

    Prepare yourself with the Boat Theory app for the theoretical test.

    Test registration

    Inform yourself on the website of the maritime authority of your canton of residence how you can register for the test.

    Test procedure

    The theoretical test is taken on tablet/computer at the cantonal maritime authority and lasts a maximum of 50 minutes.

    The point distribution is as follows:

    • Regardless of the question, one or more correct answers may always be possible (Multiple Choice).
    • With 60 questions with three answers each, there are a total of 180 possible points.
    • Each incorrectly judged answer results in one error point. With 15 error points, the test is still considered passed.

    For all boat license categories, the same basic theory test is required.

    If you fail the test, it can be repeated.

    Validity

    After passing the theory test, you have 24 months to complete the practical test.

5

Complete practical test