IALACOLREG
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Maritime Exams by Country

Each country applies its own rules around selected shared study topics such as COLREG 1972 and IALA buoyage. We add country-specific context and limits. Pick your exam:

109 countries · 55 exam guides · 30 free mock exams

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Pick your country

Tap a country to see whether you need a licence, what each exam asks and where to practise.

Timed practice exams

Test yourself on one subject against the clock. These are practice papers from this site, not an official exam.

Not sure which licence you need?Boating licence requirements in 24 countries — thresholds, tiers, minimum ages and official sources.

Which maritime exam do you actually need?

Maritime qualification requirements depend on the country, waters and intended use. This site covers selected study topics, including COLREG and IALA buoyage; check your authority’s full syllabus and practical requirements.

Below, exams are grouped by region and authority. Click any exam for the syllabus breakdown, sample questions, and the topic pages on this site you should drill before sitting.

If you cannot find your country, compare its authority and operating area with the ICC, RYA or USCG routes; none is a universal substitute and eligibility and acceptance depend on the issuing and destination authorities.

For Spanish-speaking readers, the comparison page PER vs PNB explains the two entry-tier Spanish licences. For US-bound candidates, the COLREG vs US Inland Rules page covers the exam-trap differences between international and Inland rule sets.

Choosing an exam — frequently asked questions

Which is the easiest recreational maritime licence to get?
The most suitable starting qualification depends on your country, the waters, the vessel and its intended use. Check local entry requirements and assessment formats. Apply for an ICC only if you meet the issuing authority’s eligibility and competence requirements.
Does my licence work in other countries?
Sometimes. The ICC (International Certificate of Competence, UN ECE Resolution 40) is conditional evidence of competence: check eligibility with the issuing authority and acceptance with the flag/coastal state for the vessel and intended use. Other certificates also require destination and charter-provider checks. Always check the chartering jurisdiction's rules before booking.
Can I prepare for a maritime exam entirely online?
The theory section — yes. This site covers selected COLREG, IALA, lights, sound-signal and chart-work study topics; it does not replace every recreational exam syllabus or assessment. The practical section (navigation under power and sail, MOB drill, mooring, anchor) requires time on the water with an instructor or assessor. Online study makes the practical hours much more productive.
Are STCW exams the same as recreational exams?
No. STCW sets international minimum standards for seafarer training, certification and watchkeeping. Regulation II/1 concerns officers in charge of a navigational watch on seagoing ships of 500 GT or more, with requirements for approved training, assessment and sea service under the flag State. This site provides study support, not professional certification.