Jet Ski Licence QLD: How to Get Your PWC Licence in Queensland

If you’re ready to enjoy the thrill of riding a jet ski on Queensland’s waterways, you’ll need to obtain your official Jet Ski Licence (PWC Licence) in QLD. Whether you plan to ride around Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast, or anywhere across Queensland, the process is straightforward — especially when you know what to expect.

A Personal Watercraft Licence (PWC Licence) is required in Queensland for anyone operating a jet ski, and it must be held in addition to a valid Queensland boat licence (RMDL). This guide walks you through everything involved, from training and assessments through to final licensing.

What’s Involved in Getting Your Jet Ski Licence in QLD?

To qualify for your jet ski licence in Queensland, you must:

• Already hold a valid Recreational Marine Driver Licence (RMDL)

• Complete an approved BoatSafe PWC training course with a provider such as iLicence

• Pass both theory and practical assessments specific to jet ski operation

• Submit your Statement of Competency (SOC) to Transport and Main Roads (TMR) to have the licence added to your QLD driver’s licence

The licence is then linked to your Queensland driver licence and, like your RMDL, it does not expire once added.

This process applies the same whether you’re training in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, Townsville, or anywhere else in Queensland.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Before completing your PWC (jet ski) licence course in QLD:

• You must already have completed your boat licence

• The course teaches both safety and high-speed jet ski operation

• Training is suitable for beginners, as well as those with experience

• You don’t need to own a jet ski — iLicence provides all equipment for the course

• The licence is added electronically to your Queensland driver licence

• You cannot legally ride a jet ski in Brisbane or Queensland waterways until the licence has been issued by TMR

Jet Ski Licence Assessments in Queensland

The Queensland BoatSafe PWC course includes two main components: theory and practical assessment.

1. Theory Component

This covers the essential safety knowledge required to operate a jet ski safely in Queensland. Topics include:

• High-speed navigation rules

• Understanding other vessels and collision regulations

• Safe distances around boats, swimmers, and structures

• Tidal conditions and weather awareness

• Trip planning and local Brisbane / QLD waterway rules

• Required safety equipment on a PWC

• Environmental responsibilities

This component ensures you understand Queensland’s specific rules for high-powered watercraft.

2. Practical On-Water Assessment

The practical section focuses on safe, confident jet ski operation. Skills assessed include:

• Safe starting and stopping procedures

• Correct use of the tether (kill switch)

• Speed control and manoeuvring at low and high speeds

• Quick-turn manoeuvres

• Avoiding obstacles and keeping proper lookout

• Emergency stopping techniques

• Controlled figure-eight patterns

• Navigating in busy areas like Brisbane River or Moreton Bay

Your trainer will guide you through each step, ensuring you feel confident on the water.

Licence & Certificate

After your exam & practical assessments if passed you will receive your certificate and jet ski licence. If you do fail you will need to re do those sections that were failed.

Tips & Tricks to Pass Your Jet Ski Licence in Queensland

Here are some helpful tips for students completing their PWC licence in Brisbane or elsewhere in QLD:

• Use smooth throttle control — jerky acceleration can throw your balance

• Keep your eyes up, not down at the handlebars

• Know your safety gear — TMR requires specific equipment

• Always attach your kill switch cord

• Learn Queensland’s distance-off rules (e.g., distances from people, vessels, jetties)

• Don’t cut corners during manoeuvres — wide, controlled turns are better

• Ask questions during training — your instructor is there to help

These simple tips can make a big difference during your assessment.

Common Mistakes People Make in the PWC Course

Avoiding these common errors will boost your confidence:

• Forgetting to use the safety lanyard

• Turning too sharply at high speed

• Not maintaining a safe lookout

• Confusing channel markers in busy Brisbane waterways

• Overcorrecting steering inputs

• Failing to maintain consistent speed during manoeuvres

Knowing these in advance helps you stay relaxed and focused on the day.

Things to Remember Before Applying Through TMR

Before adding your PWC licence to your Queensland driver licence:

• Your Statement of Competency must be submitted within 6 months

• Ensure your personal details match your driver licence exactly

• The licence is permanent once added

• You must keep your SOC document safe until processed

After processing, you’re officially licensed to ride a jet ski anywhere in Queensland.