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Special permits

Children from 12 to 15 years old can apply for a special permit to operate a recreational vessel. This excludes jet skis.

Visit SA.GOV.AU to find out how they can apply for this special permit.

Special Permit with supervision

To gain a Special Permit, they must pass a theory test at a Service SA centre.

To prepare for the test:

After they pass a theory test, they can operate a recreational boat with an engine under adult supervision. The adult must hold a boat operator's licence or temporary licence.

A Special Permit holder may act as an observer when someone is being towed if the boat operator both:

  • holds a valid boat operator’s licence
  • is at least 18 years old.

Special Permit without supervision

A Special Permit holder can only operate without supervision if they also pass a practical on water test.

After they pass the practical test, the Special Permit holder may operate a recreational vessel on their own as long as:

  • the vessel is less than 4 metres long
  • the vessel has a potential speed of 10 knots or less
  • they operate between sunrise and sunset
  • everyone on the vessel is wearing a lifejacket.