International Certificate of Competence facts for kids

An International Certificate of Competence (ICC) is a special certificate. It shows you know how to safely drive a pleasure boat. You can get an ICC if you have passed certain national boating tests. Or, you can pass a special exam to prove your skills. This certificate helps you boat in different countries.

What is the ICC Certificate?

The International Certificate of Competence, or ICC, is like a boating passport. It proves you are skilled enough to operate a pleasure boat. This certificate is accepted in many countries. It helps make boating safer and easier when you travel abroad.

Why is the ICC Important for Boating?

Imagine you want to take a boat trip to another country. Each country might have its own boating rules and licenses. The ICC helps solve this problem. It shows officials in other countries that you meet international safety standards. This means you can enjoy boating without needing a new license everywhere you go. It makes sure everyone on the water understands basic safety.

Who Can Get an International Certificate?

Anyone who wants to operate a pleasure boat in international waters might need an ICC. This includes people who enjoy sailing, motorboating, or even driving jet skis. You usually need to be at least 16 years old to get one. It's for people who are serious about boating safely.

How Do You Get an ICC?

To get an ICC, you need to show you are a good boater. This can happen in a few ways:

• Passing a National Boating Test: If you already have a good boating license from your home country, you might be able to get an ICC easily.
• Taking a Special Exam: You can take a test that covers important boating skills. This includes knowing how to steer a boat, understand navigation rules, and handle emergencies.
• Learning About Safety: The tests make sure you know about boat safety. This includes things like using life jackets, understanding weather, and avoiding dangers.

What Does the ICC Cover?

The ICC shows you have basic knowledge in several areas. These include:

• Boat Handling: How to steer, dock, and anchor a boat.
• Navigation: Reading charts, understanding buoys, and knowing where you are.
• Safety Rules: Following rules to prevent accidents and knowing what to do in an emergency.
• Environmental Care: How to boat without harming the environment.

Having an ICC means you are ready for fun and safe adventures on the water!

Images for kids

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  Specimen of an International Certificate for Operators of Pleasure Craft issued in Finland by Finnish Transport Safety Agency TraFi in accordance with Resolution No. 40 of the UN/ECE Working Party on Inland Water Transport.

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  Specimen of an International Certificate for Operators of Pleasure Craft in accordance with Resolution No. 40 of the UN/ECE Working Party on Inland Water Transport.

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  France specimen of an International Certificate.