Gaining your Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL) or Personal Watercraft Licence (PWCL) in Queensland means not only completing the theory component, but also demonstrating competency in a range of practical boating and jet ski skills under the state’s BoatSafe program. The videos below show what to expect on the day.
RMDL – Boat Licence Practical
- Pre‑start checks – safety equipment and vessel condition before departure.
- Slow‑speed control – smooth starts/stops, controlled port/starboard turns, approach/depart a floating object, slow figure‑8.
- Planing speed – accelerate onto the plane and maintain control; emergency stop; high‑speed figure‑8.
- Man overboard drill – recover a floating object simulating a person in the water.
- Berthing and un‑berthing – come alongside, secure, and depart safely.
- Anchoring – set with adequate scope and retrieve correctly.
- General handling – keep a good lookout, obey navigation rules, manage wind/tide/traffic.
PWCL – Jet Ski Licence Practical
- Pre‑ride checks – lanyard, safety gear, and PWC condition.
- Low‑speed manoeuvres – close‑quarters control and safe left/right turns.
- High‑speed manoeuvres – accelerate onto the plane, maintain steady course, planing figure‑8, emergency stop.
- Man overboard drill – retrieve a floating object (simulated rescue).
- Controlled approaches – to floating objects/markers.
- General operation – demonstrate full control, situational awareness, and compliance with rules.
What You’ll Be Demonstrated, Practice, and Need to Be Competent In
- Trainer demonstration – your instructor will show each task first.
- Hands‑on practice – repeat the task with guidance until confident.
- Assessment – independently perform all tasks safely and competently.
How Boat Licence Queensland Can Help
At Boat Licence Queensland, we make it simple:
- Online theory training (around 5–6 hours) completed at your own pace.
- Practical training and assessment in one day.
- Two convenient locations: Gold Coast and Brisbane (Manly Marina).
All details and bookings: https://boatlicencequeensland.com.au/
Videos used with attribution:
RMDL Practical: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zBSliXLz-8Y
PWCL Practical: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxkfT05ZU8Q
