Searching for PCOC test answers usually leads to two kinds of page: short lists of questions with no explanations, and "answer keys" that claim to show the real test. Neither helps much on test day. This page gives you 50 practice questions with answers and explanations (below the guide), explains how the real question bank works and shows you how to turn practice questions into a pass.
All PCOC practice on this site is free, including ten timed mocks. If you want the full exam simulation rather than a list, go to our boating licence practice test or start PCOC mock 1 now.
We are an independent study aid, not Transport Canada and not an accredited provider. Our questions are written from the syllabus and the regulations, not copied from the official test.
How the PCOC question bank works
Transport Canada keeps a bank of test questions. Accredited course providers draw questions from it at random for each candidate, following the testing standards Transport Canada sets, including the standard for internet testing (TP 15080). What that means for you:
- You will not see the same test twice. Retakes draw a fresh mix of questions.
- The bank is not public. No legitimate source publishes the official questions with answers.
- The topics are public. Every question is tied to the TP 14932 syllabus, which is why practice from the syllabus works.
- The format is fixed. 50 multiple-choice questions, 75% to pass (38 correct). The pass mark is set in the Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations.
If you have seen "36 questions" elsewhere, that is the older format. Practise for 50.
Key fact: A memorized answer key fails the moment the wording or the random draw changes. A rule you understand works on every version of the question.
Why we don't publish an "answer key"
People search for PCOC exam questions and answers because they want certainty. We get it. But the honest answer is that the only reliable shortcut is knowing the material, and the material is not large. The Safe Boating Guide fits in an evening of reading, and the facts that produce most questions fit on a single page.
Every practice question here has three parts:
- a question in the same multiple-choice style as the real test;
- the correct answer;
- a short explanation that names the rule behind the answer.
Read the explanation even when you get the question right. That is where the learning happens, and it is what lets you answer a differently worded question on the real test.
PCOC question types and how to answer them
The PCOC test uses a handful of recurring question patterns. Once you recognize them, most questions get much easier.
Number questions
These ask for a specific figure: a length, a power limit, an age, a time. They are the easiest marks to collect and the easiest to lose by mixing up similar numbers.
| Fact | Number |
|---|---|
| Pass mark | 75%, 38 of 50 |
| Under-12 power limit (unsupervised) | 7.5 kW (10 hp) |
| Ages 12 to 15 power limit (unsupervised) | 30 kW (40 hp) |
| Minimum age to operate a PWC | 16 |
| Pleasure craft licence needed at | 7.5 kW (10 hp) or more |
| Pleasure craft licence valid for | 5 years |
| Buoyant heaving line | at least 15 m |
| Reboarding device needed if climb is more than | 0.5 m |
| Flare lifespan | 4 years from manufacture |
| Blower time before starting a gasoline inboard | at least 4 minutes |
| Shoreline speed limit (some provinces) | 10 km/h within 30 m |
| Blood alcohol limit (Criminal Code) | 80 mg per 100 mL |
| Cold water stages | 1 minute, 10 minutes, 1 hour |
Drill these with the regulations topic and the required equipment topic.
Equipment scenario questions
A typical item describes a boat (its length, engine, fuel tank and where it is used) and asks which piece of equipment it must carry, or which item is not required. To answer:
- Find the length first. Equipment rules change at 6 m, 9 m and 12 m.
- Check the engine and fuel set-up. An inboard engine, a fixed fuel tank or a fuel-burning appliance triggers the fire extinguisher rule for boats up to 6 m.
- Watch for "or" and "and". Up to 6 m: flashlight or 3 flares. Over 6 m to 9 m: flashlight and 6 flares.
- Check for exceptions in the question: a river or lake where you are never more than 1 nautical mile from shore means no flares are needed.
The Small Vessel Regulations are the source for every equipment answer. Our Safe Boating Guide notes have the equipment table by length.
Right-of-way scenario questions
These describe two boats meeting and ask who gives way or what each should do. Picture yourself at the helm of the boat named in the question.
- If the other power boat approaches from your starboard (right), you give way and should avoid crossing ahead of it.
- If you meet head-on, both of you turn to starboard.
- If you are overtaking, you keep clear, no matter what kind of boat you or the other vessel are.
- A power boat gives way to a sailboat under sail, a vessel fishing with nets, one restricted in its ability to manoeuvre and one not under command.
- When in doubt, the answer that avoids collision through early, obvious action is the right one. No boat has an absolute right of way under the Collision Regulations.
Picture questions: buoys and lights
Providers often show a buoy or a set of lights and ask what it means or how to pass it. These questions test recognition, so practise with images until the patterns are automatic.
- Red, pointed top, even number: starboard-hand buoy. Going upstream, keep it on your right.
- Green, flat top, odd number: port-hand buoy. Going upstream, keep it on your left.
- Red and white vertical stripes: fairway (safe water) buoy.
- Yellow and black with two cones: cardinal buoy. The cones point toward the black bands.
- White with an orange circle: control buoy, such as a speed limit or no-wake zone.
- Red and green lights together ahead at night: a boat is coming straight at you.
The buoys note has the full chart; the navigation rules drill tests you on all of it.
"Best action" questions
These ask what you should do first, or what the safest action is, in an emergency or a tricky situation. The right answer is almost always the most cautious and most seamanlike option: slow down, wear the lifejacket, stay with the boat, stop the engine near a person in the water, head for shore early when the weather turns.
Common best-action topics:
- Capsizing: stay with the boat and climb onto it.
- Person overboard: shout, point and keep watching, throw something that floats, return slowly and stop the engine when close.
- Fire: stop the boat, cut the fuel, keep the fire downwind, aim at the base.
- Fuelling: passengers off, hatches closed, engine off; afterwards ventilate, run the blower 4 minutes, sniff.
- Cold water: control your breathing in the first minute, use the next 10 minutes to get out or secure yourself.
Practise these with the emergencies drill and the safe operation drill.
Definition questions
Some questions simply test a term: port, starboard, bow, stern, give-way vessel, stand-on vessel, underway, restricted visibility, PFD versus lifejacket. A lifejacket is designed to turn an unconscious person face up; a PFD is more comfortable but may not. A sailboat with its motor running is a power-driven vessel. These are quick marks if you have read the terms once.
Exam tip: On any question, read all four options before answering. PCOC distractors are often almost right: the correct number with the wrong unit, or the correct rule for a different boat length.
The PCOC test answers PDF: print the questions
If you study better on paper, open the printable PCOC question set. It lists the free practice questions with their answers and explanations, formatted for printing. Use your browser's print option and choose "Save as PDF" if you want a file for your phone or tablet.
Some ways to use the printed set:
- Cover the answers. Fold the page or use a sheet of paper, answer each question, then check.
- Mark your misses. Circle every question you get wrong and look up the rule in the Safe Boating Guide (TP 511E).
- Bring it to the dock. Walk through the equipment questions with your own boat in front of you. It is the fastest way to remember what you need to carry.
Paper is good for learning. For a realistic run at the test, switch back to the timed mocks so you get used to 50 questions in one sitting.
Questions by topic
Our PCOC bank has 801 questions across six topic groups, following the TP 14932 domains. Each topic drill pulls only from that area so you can fix weak spots one at a time.
| Topic | What it covers | Practise |
|---|---|---|
| Regulations | Proof of competency, age and power limits, pleasure craft licence, hull serial number, fines | Regulations drill |
| Safe operation | Trip planning, loading, speed and wake, alcohol, towing, PWCs | Safe operation drill |
| Navigation rules | Right of way, buoys and markers, navigation lights, sound signals | Navigation rules drill |
| Emergencies | Cold water, capsizing, person overboard, fire, distress signals | Emergencies drill |
| Required equipment | PFDs and lifejackets, equipment by boat length | Equipment drill |
| Environment | Fuelling, carbon monoxide, sewage, waste, invasive species | Environment drill |
Navigation rules and required equipment are the two largest syllabus areas and the ones with the most exact details. Start there if you are short on time.
Common wrong answers to watch for
Many PCOC-style questions are built around these misconceptions:
- "A parent on board lets a 15-year-old drive a PWC." It does not. Under 16 cannot operate a PWC, with or without supervision.
- "An inflatable PFD is fine for my 14-year-old." It is not. Inflatables are approved only for people 16 and older.
- "The PCOC needs renewing." It does not. It is valid for life.
- "Sailboats always have the right of way." Only when under sail, and even then not over a vessel it is overtaking. A sailboat motoring is a power-driven vessel.
- "One short blast means I'm turning left." One short blast means turning to starboard (right). Two short means port.
- "Swim for shore after a capsize." Stay with the boat. Swimming in cold water burns heat and strength fast.
- "A portable tank can be filled in the boat." Take it off the boat and fill it on the dock.
How to review a question you got wrong
Getting a practice question wrong is useful, but only if you deal with it properly. A quick glance at the right answer feels like progress and rarely sticks. Try this routine instead.
- Name the rule. Write down, in a few words, the rule the question was testing: "crossing: boat on my right has the right of way", or "6 to 9 m: flashlight and 6 flares".
- Find out why you chose the wrong option. Did you misread the boat length? Mix up port and starboard? Confuse a PFD with a lifejacket? Most errors fall into a small number of habits, and once you see yours you can watch for it.
- Check the source. Look the rule up in the Safe Boating Guide or our study notes. Seeing it in context, next to the related rules, helps you remember it.
- Retest within a day. Drill the same topic again the next day. If you get the same kind of question right, the rule has stuck.
Keep a short list of the rules you have missed. By the time you are ready for the real test, it will usually be a dozen lines long, and reading it once more before you start is the best last-minute review you can do.
When are you ready?
A good benchmark is 90% or better on two different full mocks, taken under the timer without looking anything up. That gives you a margin of about seven questions over the 38/50 pass line, which covers bad luck in the random draw and a few nervous mistakes. If your scores are stuck around 80%, look at which topic your misses come from; it is almost always equipment, buoys or right of way.
Your study plan
- Read the sample questions below. Answer each before you look, and read every explanation.
- Take the free 15-question diagnostic to see which topics need work.
- Drill your two weakest topics using the table above, and read the matching section of the Safe Boating Guide notes.
- Sit a full timed mock. Start with mock 1, then work through mock 2 and beyond. All ten are free.
- Aim for 90% on two mocks in a row, then follow our guide on how to get your boating licence in Canada to book the real test with an accredited provider.
50 free PCOC boating practice questions with answers
Try each one, then open the answer. For a timed experience use the free mock exam.
1. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001, when may a person or vessel discharge a prescribed pollutant?
- A. Whenever the amount is under 1 litre
- B. Whenever the boat is in fresh water
- C. Whenever no one is watching nearby
- D. Only as the regulations or a permit allow
Show answer
D. Only as the regulations or a permit allow
No person or vessel shall discharge a prescribed pollutant, except in accordance with the regulations made under that Part or a permit under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CSA 2001 s.187).
2. In a Canadian narrow channel with a current, two power-driven vessels meet head-on. Which one is the stand-on vessel?
- A. The one proceeding against the current
- B. The larger of the two
- C. The one that signals first
- D. The one proceeding with the current
Show answer
D. The one proceeding with the current
Under the Canadian modification, in a narrow channel with a current or tidal stream, the vessel proceeding with the current is the stand-on vessel and proposes the passing side; the one going against it keeps out of the way (Rule 9(k)).
3. On a calm August afternoon on a warm lake, a strong swimmer can safely skip wearing a PFD because cold shock only happens in winter.
- A. True
- B. False
Show answer
B. False
Transport Canada notes Canadian waters are cold most of the year and that even strong swimmers can suffer cold shock; it urges everyone to always wear a lifejacket or PFD on or near the water (TP 511E pp.18, 53).
4. Under the Collision Regulations, which vessels may NOT impede a vessel that can only navigate safely inside a narrow channel?
- A. Only vessels that are engaged in fishing
- B. Only vessels that are longer than 50 m
- C. Only vessels that are lying at anchor
- D. Vessels under 20 m and sailing vessels
Show answer
D. Vessels under 20 m and sailing vessels
Rule 9 says a vessel under 20 m or a sailing vessel shall not impede the passage of a vessel that can safely navigate only within a narrow channel, and vessels engaged in fishing shall not impede any vessel navigating in it (Collision Regulations, Rule 9(b)-(c)).
5. According to Transport Canada, a buoyant heaving line should:
- A. Be one full length of rope that floats and is kept only for safety
- B. Be made of several short ropes tied firmly together
- C. Double as the anchor line whenever one is needed
- D. Be made of steel cable so that it is extra strong
Show answer
A. Be one full length of rope that floats and is kept only for safety
Transport Canada says an approved heaving line floats, is in good condition, is one full length of rope rather than pieces tied together, is long enough, and is used only as safety equipment (TP 511E p.23).
6. A boating safety course taken before April 1, 1999 counts as proof of competency only if it was:
- A. Completed in Canada
- B. Recognized by a U.S. state
- C. Taken with a licensed charter company
- D. Renewed after the year 2009
Show answer
A. Completed in Canada
A person is competent if they successfully completed a recreational boating safety course in Canada before April 1, 1999 and have written proof (COPCR s.4(1)(b)). Transport Canada's FAQ confirms an older U.S. course does not qualify because the course must be taken in Canada.
7. Which boat may exceed a posted local speed limit under the Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations?
- A. A water taxi that is running behind schedule
- B. A lifeguard safety boat of a recreational institution on duty
- C. A private boat hurrying home before a storm
- D. A boat taking part in an unsanctioned race
Show answer
B. A lifeguard safety boat of a recreational institution on duty
Speed and other restrictions do not apply to enforcement officers, government employees on duty, a person rescuing someone or preventing property damage, or a safety boat used for surveillance, assistance and lifeguarding by a recreational, teaching or racing organization (VORR s.3(2)).
8. When in doubt whether a head-on situation exists, a vessel should assume that it does and act accordingly.
- A. True
- B. False
Show answer
A. True
When a vessel is in any doubt as to whether a head-on situation exists, she shall assume that it does exist and act accordingly (Rule 14(c)).
9. About how many people die in boating incidents in Canada each year, according to Transport Canada?
- A. About 10
- B. About 1,000
- C. About 5,000
- D. About 100
Show answer
D. About 100
Transport Canada states that boating incidents kill about 100 people and seriously injure many more every year, and that most deaths and injuries can be avoided with safe practices (TP 511E p.4).
10. What should a Mayday message include after the boat's name?
- A. The owner's home address and phone number
- B. The expiry date of the boat's licence
- C. Tomorrow's marine weather forecast
- D. Position, emergency, help needed, people aboard
Show answer
D. Position, emergency, help needed, people aboard
Transport Canada's Mayday format: say Mayday three times and the boat's name, then give your location, the nature of the emergency, the help you need, the number of people and condition of any injured, and the boat's description (TP 511E p.51).
11. Six teens want to ride a big inflatable towed behind a bowrider that seats six in total, with the operator and a spotter aboard. May all six ride at once?
- A. Yes, because the boat seats six in total
- B. Yes, if they all wear PFDs
- C. No, the boat needs a seat for each person towed
- D. No, only two people may ever be towed
Show answer
C. No, the boat needs a seat for each person towed
The towing vessel must have seating space for every person being towed (SVR s.1005(1)(b)). With the operator and spotter seated, only four seats remain, so no more than four people may be towed at once.
12. What should you do with garbage such as drink cans and cigarette butts while boating?
- A. Sink it in deep water where it will not be seen
- B. Bring it home or to an approved container ashore
- C. Burn it in a bucket on deck
- D. Toss it overboard if it is biodegradable
Show answer
B. Bring it home or to an approved container ashore
Transport Canada's green boating tips say not to litter and to bring your garbage home, including cigarette butts and drink containers (TP 511E p.58). Pollution of waterways with garbage is prohibited.
13. Your wake knocks a buoy out of position in the Saguenay River. What does the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 require?
- A. Move it back yourself and say nothing
- B. Report it without delay to MCTS or the Coast Guard
- C. Report it only if the buoy is lit
- D. Nothing, since it was an accident
Show answer
B. Report it without delay to MCTS or the Coast Guard
If a vessel runs down, moves, damages or destroys an aid to navigation, the person in charge shall report it without delay to a Marine Communications and Traffic Services officer or, if not feasible, a Coast Guard officer (Canada Shipping Act, 2001 s.129(1)).
14. The forecast for Lake Superior looks fine, but Nora is launching in a steep-sided bay she doesn't know. What else does Transport Canada suggest?
- A. Trust the forecast; local effects are rare
- B. Only check the forecast after launching
- C. Ask locals how the terrain affects the wind
- D. Rely on her car's weather app instead
Show answer
C. Ask locals how the terrain affects the wind
Local factors such as topography can make conditions differ from the forecast, and the best source is people who know the area well. Check the latest marine forecast before leaving too (TP 511E, 'Monitor the weather').
15. Approaching a lock on the Rideau Canal, Tom sees other boats waiting. Where should he tie up to wait for the next lockage?
- A. Along the blue line on the waiting wharf
- B. Right in front of the lock gates
- C. To a navigation buoy near the channel
- D. Anywhere in the middle of the channel
Show answer
A. Along the blue line on the waiting wharf
At locks, a blue line on the mooring wharf shows where to wait for the next lockage. Keep the channel near the gates clear so vessels can come and go (TP 511E, 'Passing through a lock').
16. The Duponts' gasoline cruiser is secured inside a lock on the Rideau Canal. What does Transport Canada advise during the lockage?
- A. Keep the engine idling so the boat holds its position
- B. Engines and generator off, no flames, bilge blower on
- C. Light the galley stove to cook while waiting
- D. Run the generator to keep the air conditioning on
Show answer
B. Engines and generator off, no flames, bilge blower on
During lockage, switch off the engines and generator, do not use open flames or smoke, and make sure the bilge blower is operating. Wait for staff to tell you when to restart your engine.
17. Which document is listed in the Regulations as acceptable proof of age?
- A. A pleasure craft licence
- B. A passport
- C. A fishing licence
- D. A boat insurance card
Show answer
B. A passport
The Regulations define proof of age as a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, birth or baptismal certificate, passport, driver's licence or other official document showing the date of birth (COPCR s.1). Young operators need it to show they meet age limits.
18. Transport Canada's Table 7 says a sailboat that is also using its motor must meet the light rules for which vessels?
- A. Sailboats only, as it has sails
- B. Vessels at anchor, whatever type
- C. Human-powered craft such as canoes
- D. Both sailboats and power boats
Show answer
D. Both sailboats and power boats
Transport Canada notes that a sailboat equipped with a motor must meet the lighting standards for both sailboats and power boats (TP 511E p.28), because under power it is a power-driven vessel (Collision Regulations Rule 3(b)-(c)).
19. Biodegradable bilge cleaners make oil in the bilge safe to pump overboard.
- A. True
- B. False
Show answer
B. False
Bilge cleaners, even biodegradable ones, just break oil into tiny, less visible droplets; the oil is still there. Use absorbent bilge cloths, which soak up petroleum products and repel water (TP 511E, 'Reduce pollution for bilges').
20. Which cleaner does Transport Canada suggest as a green option for washing a boat's deck?
- A. Vinegar mixed with water
- B. Chlorine bleach solution
- C. Engine degreaser spray
- D. Oven cleaner foam spray
Show answer
A. Vinegar mixed with water
Transport Canada suggests green cleaning products to keep toxins out of waterways, including a deck cleaner of about a cup of vinegar in 2 L of water (TP 511E, Table 14).
21. Ravi, 16, holds a PCOC and supervises his 11-year-old sister driving a 15 hp (about 11 kW) boat. Is this allowed?
- A. No, because the person supervising must be at least 18 years old
- B. No, because a child under 12 can never drive a boat over 7.5 kW
- C. Yes, but only if he watches her closely from the dock
- D. Yes, because he is 16 or older, on board, supervising and has proof of competency
Show answer
D. Yes, because he is 16 or older, on board, supervising and has proof of competency
A person under 12 may operate a craft over 7.5 kW if accompanied and directly supervised in the craft by a person 16 or older (VORR s.19). Transport Canada adds that the supervisor must also have proof of competency.
22. On an Ontario lake, Jake follows a marked, buoyed channel that runs within 20 m of shore. Does the 10 km/h shoreline limit apply there?
- A. Yes, it applies within 30 m of all shores
- B. Yes, unless he is towing a skier
- C. No, it only applies to personal watercraft
- D. No, it does not apply in buoyed channels
Show answer
D. No, it does not apply in buoyed channels
The 10 km/h within 30 m of shore rule does not apply in rivers under 100 m wide, in canals or in buoyed channels, or where another speed limit is set. Jake must still choose a safe speed and watch his wake (VORR s.2(8)(b)).
23. A skier falls on Lac Memphrémagog. The spotter points to her. How should the operator return?
- A. Race straight at her so she is not cold for long
- B. Back up quickly toward her in reverse gear
- C. Return slowly, watch her and keep the prop away
- D. Wait for her to swim all the way to the boat
Show answer
C. Return slowly, watch her and keep the prop away
Transport Canada advises going slowly, knowing where the person is and keeping the propeller far away when approaching a person in the water (TP 511E p.52). The spotter keeps watch and communicates with the operator (SVR s.1005(1)(a)).
24. In thick fog, boats that cannot see each other should use the one-, two- and three-short-blast course-change signals.
- A. True
- B. False
Show answer
B. False
Rule 34(a) applies when vessels are in sight of one another; in restricted visibility, vessels not in sight use the signals of Rule 35 instead (Rules 34(a), 35).
25. What is the main task during the first minute after falling into cold water?
- A. Swim hard toward the shore right away
- B. Keep your airway clear and slow your breathing
- C. Take off your heavy clothing and boots
- D. Shout for help as loudly as you can
Show answer
B. Keep your airway clear and slow your breathing
During cold shock, Transport Canada advises keeping your airway clear and above water, staying calm and focusing on slowing your breathing; a lifejacket keeps your mouth and nose out of the water (TP 511E p.53).
26. It is against the law to use a boat that you know is not seaworthy.
- A. True
- B. False
Show answer
A. True
Using a boat you know isn't seaworthy is illegal. You must keep the boat, its engine and all equipment in good working order, whether you own, rent or borrow it (TP 511E, 'Inspect your boat').
27. A power-driven vessel underway must keep out of the way of which of these?
- A. A PWC coming from its port side
- B. A boat it is meeting head-on
- C. A larger motor yacht behind it
- D. A vessel engaged in fishing with nets
Show answer
D. A vessel engaged in fishing with nets
A power-driven vessel underway shall keep out of the way of a vessel not under command, a vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre, a vessel engaged in fishing and a sailing vessel (Rule 18(a)).
28. At night, Luc sees only the white sternlight of a boat ahead going the same way, and he is catching up. What is his duty?
- A. Hold course, since he sees no sidelights
- B. Expect the other boat to move over
- C. Flash his lights and pass on either side
- D. Keep out of its way until well past and clear
Show answer
D. Keep out of its way until well past and clear
Seeing only the sternlight means Luc is overtaking (Rule 13(b)); the overtaking vessel shall keep out of the way of the vessel being overtaken (Rule 13(a)) until finally past and clear (Rule 13(d)).
29. Jenna hears a Mayday call on channel 16 from a boat close to her on the Bay of Fundy. Under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001, what is expected of her as master?
- A. Ignore it, since the Coast Guard will respond
- B. Transmit over the call to ask them questions
- C. Go to help if she safely can, and tell them
- D. Help only if she knows the other boater
Show answer
C. Go to help if she safely can, and tell them
On receiving a distress signal, the master of a vessel in Canadian waters shall proceed with all speed to render assistance and, if possible, inform those in distress, unless unable or it is unreasonable in the circumstances (Canada Shipping Act, 2001 s.131). Transport Canada adds that you should not interfere if the vessel is already talking with rescuers.
30. Ellen lives in Vermont and keeps her own U.S.-licensed boat at a Quebec cottage from June 1 to August 31. What does she need to operate it?
- A. Nothing, because she is not a Canadian resident
- B. Only proof of residency, however long she stays
- C. A PCOC or an operator card that meets her home state's rules
- D. A Canadian pleasure craft licence for the boat
Show answer
C. A PCOC or an operator card that meets her home state's rules
A non-resident is exempt only if the boat is in Canada for less than 45 consecutive days. For a longer stay she must be competent, either with a PCOC or a card that meets her home state's requirements, and carry proof of residency (COPCR ss.3(2)(b), 3(3), 4(2)).
31. A pleasure craft that needs one 10B:C extinguisher may carry two 5B:C extinguishers instead.
- A. True
- B. False
Show answer
A. True
A required extinguisher of a given classification is not needed if two or more certified portable extinguishers are carried with a total capacity rating at least equal to the required one (SVR s.217).
32. What backup do all Canadian-approved inflatable PFDs have if the CO2 system fails?
- A. A second foam liner
- B. An oral inflation tube
- C. An automatic spare cartridge
- D. A built-in air pump
Show answer
B. An oral inflation tube
Transport Canada notes that all Canadian-approved inflatable PFDs have a tube you can blow into if the CO2 system fails, although this can be hard for a weak swimmer. Inflatables are recommended for people who can swim (TP 511E p.19).
33. What seating rule applies when towing people on tubes?
- A. Towed people may stand on the swim platform
- B. There must be a seat on board for each person towed
- C. One seat is enough for any number towed
- D. Seats are needed only for children
Show answer
B. There must be a seat on board for each person towed
No person shall operate a vessel to tow a person unless there is seating space on the vessel to accommodate every person being towed (SVR s.1005(1)(b)).
34. Yusuf's 11 m sailboat has a diesel inboard engine and an alcohol stove in the galley. Which extinguishers must he carry?
- A. One 5B:C extinguisher
- B. One 10B:C extinguisher
- C. Two 5B:C extinguishers
- D. Two 10B:C extinguishers
Show answer
D. Two 10B:C extinguishers
A craft more than 9 m but not more than 12 m needs a 10B:C extinguisher if power-driven and another 10B:C if it has a fuel-burning cooking, heating or refrigerating appliance (SVR s.208, item 3). A sailboat with an engine is power-driven (s.1).
35. Two friends on a pedal boat (paddleboat) at a Lake Simcoe beach are both wearing properly sized PFDs in daylight. What else must they carry?
- A. A heaving line and a bailer
- B. A watertight flashlight and flares
- C. Nothing, since they wear PFDs
- D. A sound-signalling device only
Show answer
D. A sound-signalling device only
If everyone on a paddleboat, watercycle, stand-up paddleboard or sealed-hull sit-on-top kayak wears an appropriate PFD, only a sound-signalling device is needed, plus a watertight flashlight after sunset, before sunrise or in restricted visibility (SVR s.220).
36. What does Transport Canada advise PWC riders to do with the engine shut-off lanyard?
- A. Tie it to the handlebars, out of the way
- B. Attach it to the wrist, lifejacket or PFD
- C. Remove it for a smoother, faster ride
- D. Leave it in the storage hatch under the seat
Show answer
B. Attach it to the wrist, lifejacket or PFD
Transport Canada advises attaching the engine shut-off switch lanyard securely to your wrist, lifejacket or PFD so the engine stops if you fall off (TP 511E p.42).
37. What markings does a bifurcation buoy carry?
- A. Odd numbers only
- B. Letters only, no numbers
- C. Even numbers only
- D. The owner's name
Show answer
B. Letters only, no numbers
Bifurcation buoys are lettered with no numbers and, if lighted, show a composite group flashing light, for example Fl(2+1) (CCG Quick Reference Guide).
38. What kind of action to avoid a collision does Rule 8 require?
- A. Early, positive and large enough to be seen
- B. Small changes made one after another
- C. Only a sound signal, with no change
- D. A turn only at the last moment
Show answer
A. Early, positive and large enough to be seen
Action to avoid collision shall be positive, made in ample time and large enough to be readily apparent to the other vessel; a succession of small alterations should be avoided (Rule 8(a)-(b)).
39. How far from a diver-down flag does Transport Canada advise keeping your boat?
- A. At least 100 m
- B. At least 10 m
- C. At least 30 m
- D. At least 1 km
Show answer
A. At least 100 m
Transport Canada advises giving divers plenty of room and keeping your boat at least 100 m from the flag; if the waterway is too narrow, slow down as much as possible and keep clear (TP 511E p.40).
40. A sailing vessel underway must keep out of the way of which vessel?
- A. A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre
- B. A power-driven motorboat crossing its path
- C. A personal watercraft
- D. A motorboat approaching head-on
Show answer
A. A vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre
A sailing vessel underway shall keep out of the way of a vessel not under command, a vessel restricted in her ability to manoeuvre and a vessel engaged in fishing (Rule 18(b)).
41. Two hunters, their dog and decoys pack into a small boat on a windy fall morning. What does Transport Canada stress?
- A. Don't overload; it cuts stability and handling
- B. Heavy loads make a boat more stable in wind
- C. Overloading is only a problem in summer
- D. Dogs don't count toward the boat's load
Show answer
A. Don't overload; it cuts stability and handling
Hunters and anglers are told to avoid overloading, which affects stability and makes the boat harder to handle, and to wear a bright lifejacket or PFD and know their craft's limits (TP 511E, 'Fishing and hunting').
42. In a historic canal, how close to a lock gate or dam is swimming banned, as summarized by Transport Canada?
- A. Within 10 m
- B. Within 100 m
- C. Within 400 m
- D. Within 40 m
Show answer
D. Within 40 m
Historic canal rules ban diving, jumping, scuba diving or swimming in a navigation channel or within 40 m of a lock gate or dam. Fishing is banned within 10 m of a lock (TP 511E, 'Visiting historic canals and locks').
43. On a Nova Scotia lake, a boat heading to its dock may keep cruising at 40 km/h until it is 10 m from shore.
- A. True
- B. False
Show answer
B. False
In the rivers and lakes of Nova Scotia, vessels may not exceed 10 km/h within 30 m of shore (VORR s.2(7)(d)). The boat must slow down before it is within 30 m.
44. PFDs with the newer Canada/U.S. shared label may be used in both countries, while devices with older labels are accepted in only one of them.
- A. True
- B. False
Show answer
A. True
Transport Canada explains that Canada and the United States now share lifejacket standards; devices with the new labels are approved for use in both countries, while older-label devices can be used in one country or the other, but not both (TP 511E p.20).
45. Talking with local residents is a good way to learn about hazards such as low-head dams or rapids that may not be on charts.
- A. True
- B. False
Show answer
A. True
Transport Canada advises talking to local residents who know waters not covered by charts; they can point out local hazards such as low-head dams, rapids and white water, local winds and currents (TP 511E p.34).
46. What is the stern of a boat?
- A. The front end of the boat
- B. The back end of the boat
- C. The right side of the boat
- D. The bottom of the hull
Show answer
B. The back end of the boat
The stern is the rear of the vessel and the bow is the front. The sternlight is placed as nearly as practicable at the stern (Collision Regulations Rule 21(c)).
47. For the competency rules, which document can serve as proof of residency for a visitor?
- A. A birth certificate from the home country
- B. A bill of sale for the boat being used
- C. A fishing licence from the home country
- D. A driver's licence showing a home address
Show answer
D. A driver's licence showing a home address
Proof of residency means a passport, driver's licence or other official government document that sets out where the person lives. A birth certificate shows date of birth, not residence (COPCR s.1, 'proof of residency').
48. When is a smoke signal most useful?
- A. In daylight
- B. At night
- C. In thick fog at night
- D. Only when aircraft are overhead at night
Show answer
A. In daylight
Transport Canada notes smoke signals create dense orange smoke (about 3 minutes buoyant, 50 seconds hand-held) and should only be used in daylight (TP 511E p.24).
49. Crossing a bay in Lake of the Woods, Ty sees a west cardinal buoy ahead. Which way should he pass it?
- A. Keep to the west side of it
- B. Keep to the east side of it
- C. Pass on either side
- D. Stop and anchor next to it
Show answer
A. Keep to the west side of it
A cardinal buoy is named for the side on which the safest water lies. For a west cardinal buoy, the safe water is to the west, so pass on its west side (TP 511E, 'Cardinal Buoys and Special Buoys' reference card).
50. What kind of numbers do starboard hand buoys carry?
- A. Odd numbers
- B. Even numbers
- C. Letters only
- D. No markings at all
Show answer
B. Even numbers
Starboard hand buoys carry a letter and even numbers; port hand buoys carry a letter and odd numbers (CCG Quick Reference Guide).
Frequently asked questions
+Where can I find the real PCOC test answers?
Nowhere legitimate. Transport Canada's question bank is not published and each test draws a different random set. Sites selling an answer key are guessing. Learning the rules behind the questions is faster and works on any version of the test.
+Is there a PCOC test answers PDF?
You can print our practice questions with answers, or save them as a PDF, from the printable PCOC page. They are independent practice questions written from the syllabus, not the official test items.
+Are the PCOC test questions the same every time?
No. Questions are drawn at random from the Transport Canada bank, so a retake will show you a different mix. The topics stay the same because every test follows the TP 14932 syllabus.
+Can I look up answers during the PCOC test?
The online test is open book, so you may use the Safe Boating Guide or your course material. Searching every question is slow, though, so know the core facts and use the book only to check.
+How many PCOC questions can I get wrong?
Up to 12 on a 50-question test. The pass mark is 75 percent, which means at least 38 correct answers.
+Are there picture questions on the PCOC test?
Many providers include images of buoys, navigation lights or boating situations. Learn the colours, shapes and topmarks of buoys and the colour and position of lights so you can recognize them in a diagram.
+Do PCOC questions differ by province?
The test is federal and the same across Canada. A few questions involve rules that apply only in certain provinces, such as the 10 km/h limit within 30 metres of shore, and they say so in the question.
Study offline on your phone too
The Canada Licence Prep app has the same questions with audio, French explanations and an ACTS & PROVE coach.
Keep reading
- Boating Licence Practice Test (PCOC)Free PCOC practice test: ten 50-question mocks at the 75% pass mark, with buoy, right-of-way and safety equipment questions explained.
- How to Get a Boating Licence in CanadaHow the PCOC works: accredited online courses, the 50-question open-book test, cost, age and horsepower limits, and whether your card expires.
- Safe Boating Guide: Study NotesCondensed notes from Transport Canada's Safe Boating Guide: required equipment by boat length, buoys, sound signals, lights and right of way.
- Boating Licence (PCOC) Exam PrepPractice for the Pleasure Craft Operator Card test with free questions, answer explanations and a plain-English guide to getting your boating licence.