Category of rights to the boat: a complete guide to the requirements of GIMS

The need for a certificate for the right to drive a small vessel arises for every owner of a boat, whether it is an inflatable PVC boat or a solid boat with a cabin. The legislation of the Russian Federation in this area has undergone significant changes in recent years, and many old rules known to experienced water engines have ceased to apply. Category of boating license Now it is determined not only by the type of engine, but also by its power, as well as the carrying capacity of the body itself.

Ignorance of current regulations does not exempt from liability, and meetings with inspectors of the GIMS on the water can result in a serious fine or even confiscation of property. In this article, we will discuss all the nuances of the classification of small craft, the requirements for technical inspection and the procedure for obtaining the necessary documents in the current year.

Basic criteria for the need for rights

The main document regulating the rules of conduct on the water is the Code of Administrative Offences and orders of the Ministry of Emergency Situations. Under current regulations, the rights of category "M" (small craft) are not always required. fly-car weighs less than 200 kg with the engine, and the power of the latter does not exceed 8 horsepower (or 5.9 kW), then it is not necessary to formally register it and obtain a license.

But there is an important nuance that is often forgotten by beginners: the weight of the vessel is not considered according to the data-sheet figures of the hull, but in running order, taking into account the weight of the heaviest engine, which can theoretically be installed on the transom, if this does not exceed the design limitations. State inspection You may require proof of weight or weigh on the spot.

⚠️ Note: If you install the engine more powerful than the manufacturer of the boat, but formally meet 10 hp, during the inspection it will be regarded as a violation of the rules of operation and may entail a fine.

Nor are rights required if the vessel is used exclusively for sporting purposes and has the appropriate classification, or if it is a pleasure craft and does not extend beyond the 200-meter coastline, although this item is often interpreted differently by inspectors depending on the region.

Classification of categories of rights GIMS

Many people mistakenly believe that there is a single category per boat, similar to category B in motoring licenses, in fact, a small boat license is labeled with a specific category, depending on the type of engine and the type of boat. Categories of rights They are clearly divided by type of propulsion system, which determines the program of study and examination tickets.

Depending on what your boat is equipped with, you'll need to have a "Special Law" or a basic category, and it's important to distinguish between these concepts, because management is a very important thing. sailboat It takes some skills, and it takes a high-speed outboard boat to do something else, and here's a chart that helps you navigate the types of permits quickly.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the category for jet skis. Despite the fact that technically it is also a small-sized motor vessel, its management requires special training due to the lack of steering in the classical sense and high dynamics. To control the jet ski is always required rights of the appropriate category, regardless of the engine power.

Rules for PVC boats and outboard motors

The most popular segment among anglers and holidaymakers is PVC inflatable boats. The rules are the most flexible, but there are also pitfalls. If you use a boat with a carrying capacity of up to 225 kg (which usually corresponds to a length of about 3.5-3.8 meters) and a motor with a capacity of up to 5 hp, you are in the “gray zone”, where rights are not formally needed.

A common mistake of owners is to buy a 9.9 hp engine that is programmatically or mechanically limited to 5 hp. The inspector will look at the engine's technical data sheet when checking documents. If it says 9.9 hp, and you claim that it is "strangled", you may be required to provide a deed of alteration or write a penalty for driving without a license. Technical specifications The documents take precedence over the actual state.

It is also important to consider that if you are driving a boat that is subject to registration (weight over 200 kg) but not registered it, it is a separate offence. PVC light boat owners often ignore the need to have proof of ownership with them, which can also lead to detention.

Registration and inspection procedure

The process of legalizing your boat does not begin in the water, but in the inspector's office. The first step is to register the vessel, and this requires the delivery of the contract of sale, the boat's passport (PSM), the owner's passport and the receipt of payment of the state duty. identification numbers on the hull and transom, the boat is assigned a side number, which must be applied indelibly in paint in accordance with GOST.

The next step is an annual inspection, and unlike cars that require a safety check to get insurance, it is mandatory for admission to use, and the inspector checks for life jackets, anchors, scoops, life end and navigation lights if they are supposed to leave at night.

Special attention is paid to the integrity of the hull: metal boats are checked for no through corrosion, PVC - no scuffs and maintainability. If the vessel does not pass the inspection, you will be issued a correction order, and operation will be prohibited until re-checked.

Training and examination

To obtain the rights, you must undergo training in a specialized center or prepare yourself, after which you must pass the exam at the GIMS. The exam consists of theoretical and practical parts. The theory includes questions on navigation, basics of navigation, rules of the road on the water, first aid and the design of small boats.

The practical part takes place directly on the water (or on a simulator if weather conditions do not allow), the candidate must demonstrate the ability to approach the pier, perform the man overboard maneuver, properly wear a life jacket and know the distress signals. Passing the exam The first time it is possible only with a confident knowledge of the theory and the presence of at least minimal management experience.

It's important to note that the license is permanent, but every 10 years you need to change your photo card, and if you lose your license for infringement, you'll have to retake the entire program, including the practical course.

Fines and Liability on Water

Violation of the rules of operation of small craft entails administrative liability: the amount of fines can vary from 500 to 5000 rubles, and in some cases, for example, when driving while intoxicated, the fine reaches 30,000 rubles with deprivation of rights. Administrative code It also provides for the possibility of arresting the vessel and placing it in a parking lot until the circumstances are clarified.

A special category of violations is when the owner of the vessel is undocumented or operates an unregistered vessel, the inspector has the right to prohibit further movement, if the boat is far from shore, the boat can be taken in a tow, which will entail additional costs.

⚠️ Attention: Driving a small vessel while drunk entails not only a large fine, but also a mandatory medical examination.

Also, keep in mind that you can't swim in unspecified places from the boat, and if you stop in the middle of a body of water and decide to refresh yourself, it can be considered a safety violation, especially if there's no life jacket on every swimmer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)