Are licences and permits required in Europe

[Tom]

I was wondering do I need a licence to use a RIB in European countries?

Also would I need a permit before going on any lakes and rivers in Europe.

I know Europe is a big place and not every country is in the EU but I just wanted a general feel.

Thanks in advance for any help.

[Pikey Dave]

Originally Posted by Tom

I was wondering do I need a licence to use a RIB in European countries?

Also would I need a permit before going on any lakes and rivers in Europe.

I know Europe is a big place and not every country is in the EU but I just wanted a general feel.

Thanks in advance for any help.

Depends where you are going, even within the EU, different countries have different regulations. Search for the boating in France threads & you will find links to the RYA which will explain everything.

[MatFromPoland]

Yes - they have different regulation but I'm sure that any boat register within EU can you use in any EU country freely if it is registered.

The only difference is that free of driving licence is different in different countries:

Poland => no licence require for engine <= 10 kW (13,6 KM)
Greece => no licence require for engine <= 30 KM

I had not any problem at all to use my RIB in Greece.
Each time I asked Coast Guard or Port Police what they require.

Common requirement is boat insurance and certificate of competency.
But you can have them in UK

[Aquaplanning]

Every country indeed has it's own set of rules. Fines can be very steep, especially in The Netherlands. (no ICC = €550...)

You really need an ICC, with inland endorsement.

Usually no permits.

Can be a bit of a search to find the right information but it's worth the effort! Some beautiful rivers, lakes and canals to be found here.