Thinking About The Recreational Skipper’s Ticket (RST)?
Every boat needs a skipper…
What is the Recreational Skipper's Ticket?
The RST is the minimum qualification needed to operate a powerboat in Western Australia.
It’s a nationally recognised certificate of competency for recreational boaters. It proves that you have the knowledge and practical skills needed to operate a powerboat safely.
It is not a boating licence so there are no renewal fees. It’s a one-off assessment.
It’s a flexible course that’s built around you.
How long does it take?
Our students complete the course on-site in 5-6 hours.
An RST allows you to operate a powerboat in Western Australia.
Who needs an RST?
You don’t need an RST if:
The vessel doesn’t have a motor.
The motor is less than 6 hp (4.5 kW).
You do need an RST if:
You’re in charge of an RST vessel (see below).
The vessel is being operated in the water.
An RST vessel is any boat that is:
Registered with the Department of Transport (or requires registration).
Being used for recreational purposes (i.e. not commercial, e.g. family trips, waterskiing etc.)
Powered by an engine with more than 6 hp (4.5 kW).
So, if you want to take your family or friends out for a cruise then you need an RST.
Only the person in charge of the boat (the “skipper”) needs to have an RST, but you must have it with you for the entire time the boat is in operation.
The skipper is responsible for what happens on the boat during the voyage, but this doesn't mean that you need to be at the wheel the whole time.
Thinking about it?
The water might be the best classroom ever.
Age restrictions
The minimum age to obtain a Recreational Skipper's Ticket (RST) is 14 years old.
What about commercial seafarers?
Seafarers who have commercial certificates of competency still need an RST in order to be the person-in-charge of an RST vessel.
This means having your commercial qualification recognised as equivalent to the RST.
You can do that here.
Are there any exemptions?
Yes. If you hold an equivalent certificate from another state or country or have a commercial qualification, you may be eligible for an exemption.
Go here for the full list.
RST for Hire & Drive vessels
The Dept. of Transport strongly recommends that Drivers of Hire & Drive vessels hold appropriate qualifications for the type of vessel they are using. In the case of vessels used for recreation, this means holding an RST.
In some cases, an RST for a Hire & Drive vessel isn’t necessary. For example, if you’re hiring on-site, or when the vessel is part of an organised tour led by a fully qualified supervisor.
If you’re not sure, take a look at this doc from the Dept. of Transport or get in touch with us.
Successful RST students just off the Busselton Jetty.
If you’re on holiday in WA and you have an interstate boat licence, do you still need an RST?
No, not if you hold a foreign skipper's ticket from another state or country, and you intend to stay for less than 3 months. In this case, you’re not required to hold a WA Recreational Skipper's Ticket (RST).
If you intend to stay for longer than 3 months, you’ll need an RST.
In both cases, you’re required to carry your qualification with you at all times.
What’s the assessment process?
To take the Recreational Skipper's Ticket (RST) assessment, you’ll need to:
Contact an authorised provider to enrol (that’s us!).
Provide valid proof of ID, eyesight and physical fitness sufficient to operate a boat (most people use their Motor Driver’s Licence).
If you’re under 18 then you’ll need a letter of consent from a parent or guardian. Here’s one we didn’t make earlier…
How much does it cost?
Our courses are $380.00 (incl. GST).
This includes all learning materials, resources and paperwork.
There are no renewal fees.
Always feel free to get in touch if you have any questions.
Best of luck on your voyage skipper!
Fancy a quiz?
Try an official RST practice test here:
You can access the current, official workbook by clicking on the image below:
RST workbook (2018)