Boat hire - Apply for a licence

Apply for a licence

A licence is required for the use of a vessel in the following circumstances:

• Trade or business
• Letting (12 or fewer passengers)
• Recreational purposes 
• Educational purposes
• Sporting purposes

Please ensure that you read the Privacy Notice before submitting a request for a licence.

View the Civic Government Licence Privacy Notice

You will need:

• Credit or debit card

• Guidance notes (external link)

• Details of current licence

• Public liability insurance for uploading

• Certificate of fitness of vehicle for uploading

Download guidance and forms

Guidance on making an objection or representation in relation to an application submitted

If you wish to submit an objection or representation in relation to an application submitted under the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982, please read the guidance related to this.

Download guidance on making an objection or representation

Checklist for small boats

If you are applying for a licence for a small boat(s) you will require to complete and submit the checklist with your application. Small boats are defined as rowing boats, dinghies, skiffs, canoes, sailboards etc.