Recreational boating licenses are certificates of competence and authorization to operate recreational craft on inland waterways and maritime waterways. Depending on the area of validity, different recreational boating licenses are required.
The recreational craft license with the scope of inland waterways (SBF Binnen) entitles the holder to operate recreational craft with a motor (including sailing boats) on inland waterways and other waters navigable by motorboats. It is required for vessels under 20 m in length and/or with an engine with more than 11.03 kW (15 HP). The minimum age is 16 years.
The recreational craft license with the scope of maritime shipping routes (SBF See) entitles the holder to operate recreational craft with a motor (including sailing boats) on maritime shipping routes. It is required for motorized vessels with more than 11.03 kW (15 HP). The minimum age here is also 16 years.