Navigate at sea up to 6 nautical miles from shore
Coastal Boat License
The coastal boat license (sea option, officially "Permis plaisance option côtière") allows you to operate a motor or sailing vessel at sea up to 6 nautical miles from a shelter. The coastal license is the most common French boat license for leisure boaters who want to enjoy coastal navigation safely and legally. The course includes a theory component and practical time on the water.
The essentials
The French coastal boat license (officially "Permis plaisance option côtière") authorises piloting a motorboat over 6 hp at sea, up to 6 nautical miles offshore from a shelter (about 11 km from the coast). Coastal boat license training comprises 5h theory (regulations, signage, coastal navigation) and a minimum of 3h30 practical at sea. The QCM exam consists of 30 questions. 2026 price between EUR 650 and EUR 850. Minimum age 16 (with parental consent). License valid for life, no renewal.
Pricing and rates for Coastal Boat License
The price of the coastal boat license ranges from €650 to €850 depending on the centre and the formula (intensive weekend, spread over 2 weeks, e-learning + practice). The fee includes theoretical training (regulations, IALA buoyage, weather, RIPAM/COLREG, safety), practical training on the water (3 to 5 hours), boat school rental, exam presentation and learning materials. The tax stamp for the final title is €78 to be paid additionally to the Maritime Affairs office. In Marseille, Nice, Toulon, Saint-Malo, expect the high end of the range (€800 to €850) due to summer demand. The coastal boat license remains the most popular option for coastal leisure navigation in France.
How it works
01
Theory
Classroom or online tuition on coastal navigation, maritime weather, COLREG rules and safety procedures.
02
On-water practical
Hands-on: harbour manoeuvres, piloting, chart reading, man-overboard recovery.
03
Exam
MCQ theory test + on-water practical test with an examiner.
What's included
- Theory training (weather, navigation, safety, signals)
- Practical on-water training (manoeuvres, mooring, man overboard)
- Theory and practical exam
Prerequisites
- Be at least 16 years old
- Medical fitness (no contraindication for navigation)
Frequently asked questions
Can I navigate outside French waters with the coastal license?
The French coastal license is recognised in many countries. However, some require local licenses. Check with the maritime authorities of the country you plan to navigate in.
Is the coastal license required for a sailing yacht?
The license is mandatory for any motorised vessel over 6 hp at sea. For a sailing boat without a motor or with a motor under 6 hp, it is not required but strongly recommended.
How long does the coastal license last?
The coastal license has no expiry date in France. Once obtained, it is valid for life, provided you are not subject to a suspension.
Can I prepare for the coastal license online?
The theory component can be prepared online via maritime training platforms approved by the Affaires maritimes. The on-water practical must be done at an approved nautical centre. Some centres offer all-inclusive intensive weekends (theory + practical + exam over 2 or 3 days).
What is the coastal license theory exam like?
The theory exam is a 30-question MCQ over 30 minutes, covering regulations, buoyage, safety and marine weather. Pass mark: 25 correct out of 30 (max five errors). Result notified immediately. The on-water practical (manoeuvres) is then organised right after or by separate appointment.
What safety equipment is mandatory for coastal navigation?
Division 240 of the Ministère de la Mer details the mandatory equipment by navigation zone. For coastal navigation (up to 6 nautical miles from a shelter): approved 100N life jackets, locating and assistance device, fire extinguisher, bailer, anchor, light and sound signals, distress flares. Full list on the Affaires maritimes website.
How much does the coastal license cost in 2026?
The coastal license generally costs between €650 and €850 depending on the centre and package. Included: theory training, on-water practical (3 to 5h), school boat rental, exam entry, learning materials. The tax stamp for the final title is €78 (paid separately).
Is the coastal license accessible to minors?
Yes, from age 16 for training and exam, subject to written parental authorisation. Issuance of the title, however, is conditional on civil majority (18) for piloting unaccompanied. Minors may navigate accompanied by an adult license-holder. No medical check required except in specific cases (disability requiring adaptation).
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