The powerboat licence category «A» allows you to drive boats with mechanical propulsion of more than 8 hp on Swiss waters. To obtain it you must pass a theory exam and then a practical exam.
Theory exam in English: in Ticino the theory exam cannot be taken in English. If you want to take it in English, you have to sit it in another canton. How it works.
Requirements:
- Minimum age 18 (see exceptions)
- Medical examination from age 65
- Eyesight certificate
To prepare for the theory exam you can use various e-learning systems or the official manual. Theory material in English is available from Boatdriver.
To prepare for the practical exam you need on average 20 to 30 hours of practical lessons, depending on your previous knowledge. The number of hours may vary according to the student's learning pace and experience. Practical lessons are usually individual.
You can also practise with your own boat, accompanied by someone who holds a licence of this category.
Knowledge and manoeuvres required for the practical exam:
- Mooring to cleat, bollard, ring and pile
- Knots
- Determining the course
- Fixing the position
- Fire fighting
- Damage and breakdowns
- Engine failure
- Weather assessment and measures
- Anchoring manoeuvres
- Leaving and berthing at a jetty to starboard and to port
- Manoeuvring in confined spaces
- Berthing bow-to and stern-to
- Man overboard recovery
- Navigating on different courses
- Nautical terms
Exceptions to the minimum age: for family members of professional fishermen who work in the business, and for apprentices with a valid apprenticeship contract as professional fisherman, boat builder or boat maintenance technician, the minimum age for the cat. A licence is 16. The licence may only be used for professional purposes during working hours.
Costs powerboat licence category A (CHF)
| Practical lessons | |
| lesson 1 h | 135.-- |
| package of 10 lessons | 1300.-- |
| E-learning access | |
| online theory manual | 45.-- |
| online manoeuvres manual | 45.-- |
| Navigation office fees | |
| opening of file | 30.-- |
| theory exam | 30.-- |
| practical exam | 100.-- |
| issue of licence | 50.-- |
| Other | |
| issue of international certificate (ICC) | 50.-- |
Licence application form (in Italian), to be returned to the Sezione della circolazione of Canton Ticino with all required documents.
