When do you need a Boating License 1?
Whether you need a boating license depends on the boat’s maximum speed and length. If the boat travels faster than 20 km/h or is longer than 15 meters, you need a boating license. This license is also known as the “Klein Vaarbewijs.” It is always followed by an I or II. This number refers to the Dutch waterways where you are permitted to operate a boat with that license. On Alpina.nl, we explain when you need Boating License 1. Don’t forget to look into boat insurance as well. That way, you’ll be properly insured when you head out onto the water.
Where can you sail with a Class 1 boating license?
Are you wondering which boating license you need? With Boating License 1 (also known as Klein Vaarbewijs I), you are permitted to boat on rivers, canals, and lakes. This license is suitable for (smaller) inland waters. Boating License 1 also allows you to boat on the Gouwzee, which is part of the Markermeer. Exceptions include the Westerschelde and the Oosterschelde, the IJsselmeer, the Markermeer, the IJmeer, the Eems, and the Dollard. For these boating areas, you’ll need Boating License 2.
What is the difference between Boating License 1 and Boating License 2?
The difference between Boating License 1 and Boating License 2 lies in the areas where you are permitted to boat. With Boating License 1, you may boat on rivers, canals, and small lakes. With Boating License 2, you may also sail on larger bodies of water and coastal waters. These include larger lakes and the sea, such as the Wadden Sea, the IJsselmeer, the Markermeer, the IJmeer, and the Oosterschelde and Westerschelde. Before you can obtain Boating License 2, you must first hold Boating License 1. It is also possible to obtain Boating Licenses 1 and 2 at the same time. You cannot skip Boating License 1 to obtain Boating License 2 directly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boating License 1
How long is Boating License 1 valid?
Once you have obtained your boating license, it is valid indefinitely. This is because the requirement to renew a boating license was abolished as of July 1, 2014.
Do I have to be 18 years old to get a Boating License 1?
If you pass the exam but are not yet 18 years old, you will receive a letter with your results. You can then exchange this letter for a boating license when youturn 18.
Can I get Boating License 1 and Boating License 2 at the same time?
Yes, you can earn Boating Licenses 1 and 2 at the same time. That way, you only have to take the exam once. Plus, it’s more cost-effective, since you often get a discount when you combine the two courses.
Earn a Level 1 Boating License
Would you like to take your boat out on the water, but don’t have a boating license yet? You can start by obtaining the Klein Vaarbewijs I. To get Vaarbewijs 1, you must pass the KVB1 exam. There are several ways to obtain Vaarbewijs 1. For example, you can take a one-day course. This means you’ll spend a day in class receiving instruction from an instructor. Afterward, you’ll take the course material home with you so you can review it on your own. There are also various online courses and video courses available. So you can choose whichever method you find most comfortable. Of course, you can also opt for self-study, possibly supplemented with exam preparation sessions.
Boating License Level 1 Exam
To obtain your boating license, you only need to take a written exam; there is no practical exam. You can register for this exam on the CBR website and take it at a location near you. Don’t forget to bring a valid form of identification with you to the exam.
There is no minimum age for taking the exam. If you pass the exam but are not yet 18 years old, you will receive a letter of results. You can then exchange this letter for a boating license when youturn 18. Until then, you are not allowed to operate a boat or navigate in an area where a boating license is required.
Apply for Boating License 1
Once you have passed the Klein Vaarbewijs I exam, you can apply for the boating license through the CBR website. To do so, follow these steps:
- Go to the CBR website and log in to My CBR
- Click the "All Tasks" taborthe "Something Else"button
- Under "Recreational Boating," click on "Recreational Boating Health Declaration"
- Please follow all subsequent steps as indicated
- Under "Recreational Boating," click "Apply for a Boating License"
- Click on "First Application for a Boating License"
- ClickStart
- You choose the card with the most benefits (to which you are entitled)
- Please follow all subsequent steps as indicated
Once you have paid, the CBR will send your boating license to you within two weeks.
How much does it cost to get a Level 1 boating license?
The costs, of course, depend on how you obtain your Boating License 1. Are you taking a one-day course? If so, it often costs around €150. A video course is slightly cheaper, at about €100. You should also take the following costs into account:
Boating License 1 Abroad
To be allowed to operate a boat abroad, you need an ICC. ICC stands for International Certificate of Competence. It is an English translation of the boating license. All newly issued boating licenses automatically come with an ICC. Boating License 1 is referred to in English as an ICC for inland waters. If you have Boating License 2, you will receive an ICC for inland and coastal waters.
Are you planning to go boating abroad with a Boating License 1? If so, it’s important to check the rules that apply in those countries regarding boating licenses. Each country has its own rules about when you need which type of license.
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