Key tips for getting your boating license

Thinking about getting your boating licence so you can enjoy a relaxing sail on your own boat or a rented one from Tubber? But not sure where to start? Don't worry—we've got you covered! Not sure if you even need a licence for your boat? This blog will provide all the answers you need.

Getting a boating license

You can get your boating license by taking an exam at the CBR. Since January 1, 2020, the CBR has taken over the examination and issuance of boating licenses from VAMEX. You can apply quite easily by entering your DigiD data on the CBR website. After which you can choose from 1 of 20 exam locations across the country. So quickly check which location is closest to you and book an exam. Furthermore, you must be at least 18 years old to qualify for the boating license (so you can start before the age of 18).

The exam

Rest assured, the questions are almost all multiple choice. The exam is administered via a screen in the exam room. Both exams are purely theoretical. After that, it's up to you to get a fun experience. Below, you can read what both exams consist of.

Small sailing license 1

The small boat license 1 exam consists of 40 multiple choice questions, for which you have one hour. With this exam, you learn the basics of safe boating on the inland waterways in the Netherlands. You can score between 1 and 3 points per question. In total you can score 80 points. Make sure you score at least 56 points (70%), then you are safe.

Small sailing license 2

In terms of knowledge, this exam obviously goes much deeper into the material so you can safely operate a vessel on the larger waters. This exam takes 1.5 hours and consists of 27 questions (23 multiple choice and 4 open questions). You can score between 1 and 4 points per question. In total you can score 50 points. To pass, you need a minimum of 35 points (70%).

Costs sailing license

• Small sailing license 1: €42
• Small sailing license 2: €50
• Combination KVB1+ 2: €70,-

*Please note: these prices do not include surcharges for extra time or a supervised exam.

It is possible to combine KVB1 and KVB2 by taking them on the same day, then you pay €70, keep €22 in your wallet and only have to go to the exam location once. Despite being more expensive, we recommend taking the small boat license in two parts. Mainly because it is quite a lot of information to memorize at once, and it can be difficult to tell the different rules apart.

Health Statement

To get a Limited Sailing License or separate ICC Coastal Waters, you must meet the exam requirements for inland navigation. After you pass, you must complete a medical health declaration, which costs 10 euros. This can be done via My CBR after you have logged in. You also have to fill out this declaration if you license. Simply put, you meet the requirements if you can answer no to all the questions.

It is important to know that you have to fill in a separate health declaration for each boating license (pass). So, only apply for the pass with the most privileges (to which you are entitled). You can find more information on the CBR website .

Exam results

After you complete the exam within the time limit, you will immediately see the results on your screen. You can then view your incorrectly answered questions for 2 minutes. Of course, you are not supposed to take a picture or write down the answers. If your e-mail address is also known to CBR, you will also receive the results by e-mail. So you don't have to wait weeks in suspense to know if you passed and can apply your newly acquired knowledge on the water!

Then all you have to do is upload the medical certificate and a passport photo, and you're done. Within a maximum of 10 business days, you will receive your new boating license card at home. In the meantime, do not go out on the water without your license, as this can cost you dearly. A fine cost €550 for a boat with a license. That would really be a waste of money. Both boating licenses are now valid indefinitely.

What to bring.

Before you go to your exam, read this page carefully so you know exactly what is expected of you regarding corona measures. Be there 15 minutes beforehand and remember to bring the following:

• A valid ID
• Confirmation of your reservation

Prepare well, then you won't have to worry, and we'll see you on the water soon.