California Occupational License

License Title:
    For-Hire Operator's License
Return to Occupation Profile
Licensing Agency:
     Department of Parks and Recreation
     Division of Boating and Waterways
     Yacht and Ship Broker Licensing Unit

Licensing Agency Contact Information:
     Address: One Capitol Mall, Suite 500
Sacramento,  CA  95814

     Phone Number: (888) 326-2822
     Fax Number: (916) 327-1878

     Internet Address: http://www.dbw.ca.gov

License Requirements, Fees, and Examination Information:
Vessel Operators that provide tours on the inland lakes and waters that cannot be navigated to sea or another state are required to obtain for-hire license.

Who must be licensed under the law?

The law applies only to operators of powered vessels carrying four or more passengers for money or other consideration on California waters not under Federal jurisdiction. Water skiers being towed are considered as passengers.

What California waters are NOT under federal jurisdiction?

Waters not considered under Federal jurisdiction are those which cannot be navigated to the sea or to another state.

Be at least eighteen (18) years old.
Have one year's experience in operating the type of boat on the type of water for which the license is requested.
Good physical condition.
Adequate knowledge and skills necessary for safe operation of a passenger vessel. Written and practical (on-the water) examinations are given.

Note: If you have a valid Coast Guard Motorboat Operator's License, you may be issued a State license without further examination.

There is no fee for the license at the moment but is subject to change in near future.

For more information please visit the link attached: http://dbw.ca.gov/YnS/forhire.aspx.
Occupations To Which This License Applies:
Occupation TitleSOC Code
Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels 535021