Japan – Boat Licensing and Skippers Certificates

Under the Domestic Law, those who operate any boat or ship of less than 20 gross tons (or any pleasure boat less than 24m in length) are obliged to obtain drivers licences. There are 3 categories of drivers licences. 16 years old and over can get the 2nd grade and PWC licences and 18 years old and over can get the 1st grads licence. No licence is required for drivers using under 3m length boat and 1.5kW engine power.