The need for a boatmaster's license to operate a small-size boat (MS) with an engine remains one of the most discussed issues among water-engineers, a confusion that arises from the constant changes in legislation, differences in interpretation of technical specifications and nuances of the classification of swimming equipment. Legal literacy The owner of a boat is not just a way to avoid a fine, but also a guarantee of safety on the water.
Many beginners mistakenly believe that having an engine automatically requires rights, or vice versa, that low-power engines (up to 5 hp) are in the “gray zone” and do not require any registration. load-loadWe'll go into this in detail so that your way out into the water doesn't get overshadowed by the GIMS inspector.
In this article we will consider the current requirements, categories of rights required for different types of engines, and also analyze the subtleties of registration of small craft. Understanding these rules It will help you legally enjoy your water holiday, whether it is fishing, hunting or going for a walk with your family, and it is important to keep in mind that the legislation may change, and it is the boatmaster's direct responsibility to monitor the innovations.
Key parameters: power and weight of the vessel
The main criterion for obtaining rights is the combination of engine power and weight of the vessel without load. According to the current legislation of the Russian Federation, the rights of category M (motor boat) are necessary if the power of the outboard motor exceeds 5 hp (3.68 kW) OR if the weight of the outboard vessel exceeds 200 kg. boat-wreckNot about the load capacity.
If you own a lightweight PVC inflatable boat weighing 30-40 kg and install a 3-5 hp engine on it, you do not need the rights. However, if you buy a heavier boat, such as an aluminum Kazanka or a heavy PVC boat with a hard bottom, whose weight in running order (with an anchor, fuel tank and other equipment) exceeds 200 kg, then the rights will be required even when installing a 2 hp engine.
To determine the exact need for rights, you need to look at the passport If the passport says that the boat weighs 200 kg or less and the engine power is up to 5 hp inclusive, you are free from having to take the exams at the GIMS. Otherwise, the paperwork is mandatory. The water inspector has every right to require documents confirming the engine power (usually this is marked on the lower unit) and the weight of the boat.
⚠️ Attention: Do not attempt to paste or erase the power markings on the engine's lower unit. GIMS inspectors know the basic models and their specifications. The lack of marking or damage to it can be interpreted as an attempt to hide the real specifications, which will entail administrative detention of the vessel until the circumstances are clarified.
Categories of rights to small craft
Unlike a car driver's license, a small boatmaster's license is divided into categories depending on the type of vessel. For boat owners, the most relevant categories are M (motor boat) and G (hydrocycle). However, if you plan to operate a larger vessel, you may need to have B (boat), C (small sailing vessel) or D (non-self-propelled vessel).
The M category allows you to operate a motorboat with an outboard motor of more than 5 hp, which is the most popular option among fishermen and water lovers, and allows you to operate vessels up to 20 meters long and with up to 12 passengers.
There is also a division of navigableThe permit may be marked “GP” (inland waterways) or “GDP” (inland waterways, including seaports). For most lakes, rivers and reservoirs, a category with an “EaP” permit is sufficient. If you plan to go to the high seas or large reservoirs with special regime, additional admission is required. Training includes learning about navigation, navigation, first aid and engine design.
- 🚤 Category “M” motor boats with outboard motors (the main category for amateurs).
- 🌊 Category “G” - jet ski (requires a separate exam, even if you have a boat license).
- ⛵ Category “C” Small sailing vessels (relevant for yachtsmen).
- 🚢 Category “B” boats (with a stationary engine or powerful outboard motors on boats with a displacement of more than 0.25 tons).
It is important to note that the rights to a car (category "B") do not give the right to drive a motorized boat more powerful than 5 hp This is a common misconception. To manage water transport, a separate certificate issued by the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia (GIMS) is required. The validity of the boatmaster's license is 10 years, after which it is required to replace it without re-taking examinations, unless there were gross violations.
When submitting documents for obtaining rights, be sure to make copies of all pages of the passport and the valid boatmaster's license (if you already have one) to speed up the registration process in the GIMS.
Registration of small craft: when it is mandatory
In addition to the boatmaster's rights, the boat itself must also be registered with the State small craft Inspectorate (SIS) if it meets certain criteria, registration is required for all small craft used for non-commercial purposes if their loaded vessel weighs more than 200 kg or if the power of the engine installed on them (outboard motor) exceeds 8 kW (which corresponds to approximately 10.88 hp).
Here comes the important point of the intersection of the rules: to control the boat, you need rights at engine power > 5 hp, and to register the vessel - at power > 8 kW (~11 hp) or weight > 200 kg. Thus, you may have a boat weighing 150 kg and an engine 8 hp (about 6 kW). In this case, the rights of category "M" you already need (since > 5 hp), but registering the boat itself in the GIMS and getting the onboard numbers is not yet required. This is a "gray zone", which is often misinterpreted.
The registration process includes inspection of the vessel by an inspector, check of the hull and engine numbers, and payment of the state duty. After successful completion of the procedure, the owner receives the boat's ticket and registration plates (numbers) that must be fixed on the boards of the vessel.
| Parameter | Need a license? | Do you need a vessel registration? | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight < 200 kg, Motor ≤ 5 hp | No. | No. | Total discretion |
| Weight < 200 kg, Motor 6-10 hp | Yes. | No. | Rights are required, registration is not required |
| Weight < 200 kg, Motor > 10.88 hp | Yes. | Yes. | You need rights and registration |
| Mass > 200 kg, Any motor | Yes. | Yes. | Even with a 2 hp engine. |
Procedure for obtaining and replacing rights
To obtain a boatmaster's license, you must contact a training center licensed to train small boatmasters. Training usually takes 2 weeks to 1 month and includes theoretical classes and practical driving skills. After the course you receive a certificate of completion, with which you can already go to the GIMS for the exam.
The GIMS exam consists of a theoretical part (computer testing) and a practical part (boat driving along the route), the theory includes questions on the rules of navigation on inland waterways, the basics of navigation, communication and first aid, the practice assesses the ability to confidently operate a boat, approach a berth, act in emergency situations. Successful delivery The exam gives the right to obtain a certificate.
To replace the rights after their expiration (10 years), you do not need to take the exam again. It is enough to apply, provide a medical certificate (Form 003-V / y, as for a driver's license, with admission to the management of small craft), the old license form and pay the state fee. However, if the rights were lost or their validity expired more than 1 year ago, the GIMS may require a re-take of the exam.
☑️ Documents for obtaining rights
Fines and liability for violations
Violation of the rules of registration and management of small vessels entails administrative liability under the Code of Administrative Offences (CAO) of the Russian Federation. The amount of fines may vary depending on the severity of the violation. The lack of rights to operate a vessel with a motor more powerful than 5 hp threatens with a fine of 2000 rubles.
If the vessel is registered but not registered, or has no hull plates, the fine will be from 1500 to 2000 rubles. In the case of a violation that threatens the safety of people or property, or if the skipper is intoxicated, the consequences can be much more serious, up to the arrest of the vessel and deprivation of rights for a long period. Sobriety The driving of a boat is as strictly controlled as it is on a car.
Safety regulations are also a violation, and the safety of a vessel without life jackets is a violation, and GIMS inspectors regularly conduct raids, especially on weekends and holidays, and having a full set of documents and safety regulations is a guarantee of a relaxed rest.
⚠️ Attention: Driving a small vessel in a state of alcoholic or narcotic intoxication entails a fine of 30,000 rubles and deprivation of the right to drive for up to 2 years.
What to do if the documents are left at home?
If you have forgotten your documents at home but you have them (their expiration date has not expired), the inspector can check them against the database, however, not having them on your own is a formal violation, it is better to always carry originals or notarized copies with you, and also have electronic versions on your smartphone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need an electric motor for a boat?
Yes, if the electric motor is over 5 hp (3.68 kW) in watts, it's about 2720 watts. Most trolling motors have about 30-60 lbs of thrust, which corresponds to about 0.3 - 0.6 kW (0.4 - 0.8 hp), so they don't need rights. But if you have a powerful electric boat, check the passport power.
Can you drive a boat with a B (car) license?
No, it is impossible. the driver's license for the car (category B) does not give the right to drive a small vessel with an engine more powerful than 5 hp You need to undergo special training and obtain a boatmaster's license in GIMS.
Do I need to register a boat if the engine with a capacity of 9.9 hp is “strangled” up to 5 hp?
Formally, if the documents (passport of the outboard motor) indicate a power of 9.9 hp, the inspector will focus on them. Even if you physically limited the traction, legally the engine remains 9.9 hp To legalize requires changes in the passport of the product by the manufacturer or the presence of an official certificate of conversion, which in practice is extremely difficult to do.
Where can I take the boatmaster's license exam?
The exam is taken in the units of the GIMS of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia at the place of residence or stay, however, before that you must undergo training in an accredited training center, a list of such centers can be found on the official website of the regional department of the Ministry of Emergency Situations or GIMS.
The main conclusion: The rights are needed for the engine > 5 hp or boat > 200 kg. Registration of the vessel - with an engine > 8 kW (~11 hp) or a weight > 200 kg. Do not confuse these thresholds!