What is the ICC?

The International Certificate for Operators of Pleasure Craft is a certificate which is intended to provide evidence of competence when requested by officials in foreign countries. It was historically known as the International Certificate of Competence. It’s often required for demonstrating competence when bareboat chartering/renting boats abroad (ie. without a professional skipper/crew). 

How do I get an ICC?

The easiest way to apply for your ICC is to apply online via the RYA website

Do I have to sit any additional tests or assessments to get the ICC?

If you’re looking to obtain your ICC for use on coastal waters, after completing your RYA Level 2 powerboat course, your RYA Powerboat Level 2 certificate can be used to evidence competency for the category of “Power up to 10m length overall” – with no additional assessment required!

If you also require the INLAND category to be validated on your ICC (this is required for navigating on inland waterways – rivers, canal systems and lakes – in Europe), you will need to complete a CEVNI theory test. For full details, supporting materials/resources, and test bookings, please visit: www.focusmarine.co.uk/cevni

How much does the ICC cost?

ICC certificate are priced at £47, or free for RYA Members.

When applying for your ICC, you will have the option of becoming an RYA member (there’s no need to apply in advance).

The cost of RYA membership is the same as the cost of ICC certification (or, in some cases, cheaper!), and you can additionally benefit from member discounts and offers as well as free certificate amendments. If you decide to opt for RYA membership, please support our centre by using the following Joining Point code upon application: 920768491

Who can get an ICC?

You must be aged 16 or older to apply for an ICC. The RYA can issue a UK ICC to any UK national, as well as nationals of other countries who are normally resident in the UK. If you are neither a UK national nor resident in the UK, please check the guidance on the RYA website carefully.

How long does the ICC application process take?

Please check the RYA website for the latest certification lead times. At the time of writing (July 2022) the turnaround time for ICC applications is 5-6 weeks. We recommend that candidates allow plenty of time for ICC applications, as lead times do vary during peak times.

Can I fast-track my ICC application?

Yes – at the time of writing, the RYA Certification department are accepting fast-track applications to reduce the turnaround time to 10 working days (or less). See the RYA website for more details.