Boating licence
Four-stroke outboard: does the nautical-licence threshold change?
For a 4-stroke outboard, both limits apply: over 1,000 cm³ and over 30 kW; an inboard must exceed 1,300 cm³.
For a 4-stroke outboard within six miles or on inland waters, exceeding 1,000 cm³ or 30 kW triggers the licence requirement. For a 4-stroke inboard, the displacement threshold is 1,300 cm³; power above 30 kW is an independent trigger here too.
Four-stroke limits depend on installation
Article 39(1)(b) sets displacement thresholds above 1,000 cm³ for a four-stroke outboard and above 1,300 cm³ for a four-stroke inboard. Within six miles and on inland waters, a licence is required if displacement exceeds the relevant threshold or power exceeds 30 kW (40.8 CV). These are independent triggers; either one is enough.
The statutory categories cover carbureted or injected four-stroke engines and distinguish outboards from inboards. Do not confuse these values with the separate limits for two-strokes or diesels. “Above” excludes the exact figure: 1,000 cm³ does not exceed the outboard threshold, and 1,300 cm³ does not exceed the inboard threshold. Check actual displacement and power in the vessel documents, and ask the Port Authority to clarify any mismatch between certificate and engine plate.
For example, a 1,100 cm³ four-stroke outboard at 28 kW requires a licence because it exceeds 1,000 cm³. An outboard at 900 cm³ and 35 kW requires one because of power. A 1,200 cm³ inboard at 35 kW also requires one because it exceeds 30 kW, even though it is below 1,300 cm³. Beyond six miles, a licence is required regardless.
Check power, displacement and installation
Read displacement, power in kW and installation type separately from the engine certificate, then compare each with its applicable threshold. Check the route too: beyond six miles a licence is required regardless. If the craft has multiple engines, ask the Port Authority how the thresholds apply to the installed configuration.
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Frequently asked questions
Does a 1,100 cm³ four-stroke outboard at 28 kW trigger these limits?
Yes. It exceeds 1,000 cm³, so a licence is required even though power is below 30 kW. Exceeding either criterion is enough.
What is the limit for a four-stroke inboard?
Above 1,300 cm³ for displacement; power above 30 kW also triggers the licence regardless of displacement.