Q. How does a boat operator become a Licensed Captain of a vessel, is there a Government test that he/she must take?
A. There is a standardized written test and a practical exam which assesses the Captain’s Boat Handling abilities.
Q. What licensing would be required by the Government?
A. All vessels operating in Belizean waters need to be subject to the regulatory environment in Belize. However, it differs depending on whether the vessel will be imported for use in Belize and fly a Belizean Flag, or whether it will just trade with Belize. If the vessel is to fly the Belizean Flag, it needs to be registered by IMMARBE, or by the Belize Port Authority, depending on the circumstances.
Q. What are the procedures to license a boat if you are a first time operator?
A. For locally purchased vessel the documents that would be required are:
- Boat Builder’s certificate
- Bill of sale for vessel
- Bill of sale for outboard engine
- Copy of Owner’s ID or person conducting the transaction (Driver’s License not accepted)
- Owner’s recent utility bill
- For imported vessel:
- Certificate of title/ownership/documentation/registry
- Bill of Sale
- Customs declaration for vessel and engine
- Government of Belize receipt for custom duty payment
- #4 & 5 applicable as above
If you intend to have the vessel inspected at your location; the following fees are applicable and subject to be deposited into the Authority’s account prior to inspection:
- Administrative Fees
- Registration fee $30.00 BZE
- Licensing fee $50.00 BZE for private use, $80.00 BZE for passenger/fishing uses, and $150.00 BZE for cargo use
- Mileage Fees
However, if you intend to have the vessel inspected in Belize City at on of our inspection sites, then administrative and mileage fees are not applicable.