When do you need a Boating License 2?
Do you already have Boating License 1? If so, you might be wondering whether you also need to get Boating License 2. Or perhaps you don’t have a boating license at all and want to know which one you’ll need and when. Which boating license you need depends on the area where you want to boat. Would you like to boat on the inland waters of the Netherlands, such as rivers, canals, and small lakes? Then Boating License 1 is sufficient. Do you also enjoy boating on larger lakes or at sea? Then you’ll need Boating License 2. We’re happy to explain it all to you at Alpina.nl. You can also calculate your boat insurance premium right here with us!
Where can you sail with a Boating License 2?
The boating license is also known as the “Klein Vaarbewijs.” It always has an “I” or “II” after it. This number refers to the Dutch waterways where you are permitted to boat with that license. Boating License 2 is actually Boating Licenses 1 and 2 combined. This means you’re not only allowed to sail on rivers, canals, and lakes, but also 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. One exception is the Gouwzee, which is part of the Markermeer. There, you may sail with Boating License 1 alone.
What is the difference between Boating License 2 and Boating License 1?
The difference between Boating License 1 and Boating License 2 lies in the areas where you’re allowed to boat. With Boating License 1, you’re permitted to boat on rivers, canals, and small lakes. With Boating License 2, you’re also allowed to 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.
Get a Boating License Level 2
You can obtain Boating License 2 if you already hold Boating License 1, or if you take both exams at the same time. To obtain Boating License 2, you must pass the KVB1 and KVB2 exams. You can choose to take both exams back-to-back or to take KVB1 first and then KVB2. You will only receive a Boating License 2 once you have passed both exams. If you only pass KVB2, you cannot yet apply for a Boating License 2. If you only pass KVB1, you may be able to apply for a Boating License 1 in the meantime.
How much does a Boating License 2 cost?
The cost, of course, depends on how you obtain your Boating License 2. Are you taking a one-day course? If so, it often costs around €150. An online course is slightly cheaper, at about €100. You should also factor in the following costs:
Frequently Asked Questions About Boating License 2
Is it hard to get a Boating License 2?
Many people wonder if it’s difficult to get Boating License 2. It depends on the person. If you already have Boating License 1, you naturally already have some of the knowledge. In addition, there are various types of learning materials, such as a one-day course or a video course. You can choose the learning method that suits you best.
How long is Boating License 2 valid?
Once you have obtained a boating license, it is valid for life. The requirement to renew the Small and Large Boating Licenses was abolished as of July 1, 2014.
Can I get Boating License 2 even without Boating License 1?
No, you must first obtain Boating License 1 before you can obtain Boating License 2. However, you can take both exams at the same time. If you pass both, you will immediately receive Boating License 2.
Boating License 2 Exam
To pass Boating License 2, you must successfully pass both the KVB1 and KVB2 exams. You do not need to take a practical exam for this; only a theory exam is required. 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 2
Once you have passed the Klein Vaarbewijs II 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"
- Follow all the remaining steps as indicated
- Under "Recreational Boating," click "Apply for a Boating License"
- Click on "First Application for a Boating License"
- ClickStart
- You choose the pass with the most privileges (to which you are entitled)
- Follow all the remaining steps as indicated
Once you've paid, the CBR will send you your boating license within two weeks.
Boating License 2 Abroad
To be allowed to sail abroad, you need an ICC. ICC stands for International Certificate of Competence. It is the English equivalent of the boating license. All newly issued boating licenses automatically come with an ICC. Boating License 2 corresponds to an “ICC for inland and coastal waters” in English. If you only have Boating License 1, it is called an “ICC for inland waters.” If you plan to sail a boat abroad, it’s important to check in advance what the boating license regulations are in that country. These can vary from country to country.
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