Nautical licence within 12 miles: what is the minimum age?

You must be 18 to take the examination for the ordinary nautical licence within 12 miles. Since 2025, a special D1 licence has also been available from age 16, but it is limited, among other conditions, to navigation within six miles; it is not an ordinary 12-mile licence.

The ordinary 12-mile licence requires age 18

The MIT page and nautical regulations set age 18 as the minimum for admission to the ordinary examination for a licence allowing navigation within 12 miles of the coast. Age is a minimum requirement, not automatic authorisation: candidates must also meet medical conditions and pass the required examinations. The licence covers navigation within its stated distance, subject to its category and any restrictions printed on it.

Do not confuse this licence with rules that let some craft be operated without a licence. For certain recreational craft below the power and displacement limits, MIT lists different minimum ages by vessel type and navigation area; those exceptions are not a way of obtaining a licence. Also, special category D1 became operational in 2026 and can be obtained from age 16 under specific limits: daytime navigation, within six miles, hull length up to 12 metres, and other conditions on the craft and power. Until age 18 it is further limited to recreational craft and personal watercraft. D1 therefore does not permit navigation within 12 miles.

For example, a 17-year-old cannot obtain the ordinary 12-mile licence, but may consider D1 only if the medical and other requirements are met and the restrictions are acceptable. At 18, a person may apply for the ordinary licence but must still complete the required preparation and pass the examinations.

Choose the licence before enrolling

When contacting a nautical school, specify whether you want the ordinary licence within 12 miles or D1. Compare navigation range, craft type and age restrictions; do not rely on both titles simply being called “nautical licences”. For D1, use MIT’s updated procedures and current application forms.

Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps you review common theory through chapters, exam quizzes and error review. It does not provide nautical courses or issue licences; contact MIT, the Motorizzazione or Port Authority for the nautical route.

Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps you review road theory with category B chapters, exam quizzes and mistake review.