What types of boat need a licence?
All types and size of boat with or without a motor need a licence. Motorised boats include river boats, canal boats and houseboats.
All portable, unpowered craft (those without motors) such as canoes, kayaks, dinghies, rowing boats, paddleboards and even light inflatable craft, also require licensing. Further information on unpowered craft can be found in our paddle sports section.
Before you purchase a licence
Please note that the licences we offer are only valid for the Canal & River Trust network, with the exception of the gold licence.
Before you purchase anything, check whether you'll be boating along any of our 96 canals and navigable rivers through our interactive map.