The 5 Most Common Mistakes People Make on Their Boat Licence Test (and How to Avoid Them)

Getting your boat licence in Queensland is a big milestone — and a ticket to freedom on the water. But every week at Boat Coach, we see people tripped up by the same common mistakes during their boat or jetski licence assessments.

If you’re preparing for your test, this quick guide will help you skip the stress, stay safe, and pass first go.

1. Not Knowing the Basics of Safety Gear

Mistake: Forgetting the location or use of essential safety equipment like lifejackets, fire extinguishers, or the EPIRB.
Why It Matters: You need to demonstrate you can quickly access and properly use this gear in an emergency.

How to Avoid It:

• Pay attention during the safety briefing.

• Ask questions if you're unsure.

• Practise pointing out and explaining each piece of gear.

2. Panicking When Parking (aka Docking)

Mistake: Rushing docking or coming in too fast.
Why It Matters: Speed and control are crucial for safe vessel handling, especially near jetties and pontoons.

How to Avoid It:

• Use neutral gear and short bursts of throttle.

• Keep calm, use your surroundings (like wind and tide), and always approach slowly.

• Remember: you're being assessed on safety and control, not speed.

3. Forgetting the Prep Work (Pre-Start Checks)

Mistake: Jumping straight to starting the engine without checking fuel, steering, battery, and bungs.
Why It Matters: Pre-start checks show you understand how to safely operate a boat before leaving the ramp.

How to Avoid It:

• Memorise your pre-start checklist or write it down.

• Take your time — this part is essential and not rushed during the test.

4. Poor Situational Awareness

Mistake: Not looking around or failing to identify hazards, markers, or other vessels.
Why It Matters: Safe boating is about constant awareness — especially in high-traffic or shallow areas.

How to Avoid It:

• Regularly scan the water while operating.

• Call out what you see — buoys, signs, other boats — to show your assessor you're actively observing.

5. Not Understanding Give Way Rules

Mistake: Confusing who gives way between powered boats, sailboats, and crossing paths.
Why It Matters: Failing to give way correctly is not only unsafe — it’s a guaranteed fail.

How to Avoid It:

• Use simple memory tricks (like "powered gives way to sail" or “give way to the right at crossings”).

• Practise drawing out scenarios before test day.

Bonus Tip: Confidence Comes from Practice

The boat licence test isn’t designed to trick you — it’s designed to make sure you can operate a vessel safely and confidently. At Boat Coach, we give you all the real-world practice, coaching, and feedback you need to pass with confidence.

Thinking About Getting Your Boat or Jetski Licence?

Join one of our upcoming Boat Coach training sessions in Brisbane. Whether you're a total beginner or just need a refresher, we’ll guide you every step of the way — no stress, no jargon.

👉 Book your spot today or follow us on Instagram for weekly boating tips.