1. Meet the Requirements for Registration

To obtain a boating license for vessels up to 12 meters in length, you must be at least 18 years old. You also need a valid passport or national ID card to prove your nationality and residency in Croatia.

2. Visit an Authorized Boating School

In Šibenik, there are several boating schools that offer courses and exams for obtaining a boating license. You will need to register for a course at one of these schools. The courses usually include both theoretical and practical lessons.

You should inquire about the course schedule, prices, and requirements.

3. Course and Lessons

The course typically lasts several days to a week, depending on the school and your availability. The theoretical part covers:

• Maritime legislation.
• Safety at sea.
• Navigational rules.
• Navigation.
• Boating equipment and devices.

The practical part involves handling the boat, maneuvering, anchoring, and basic navigation.

4. Exam

After completing the course, there is an exam consisting of:

• Theoretical exam: Questions about legislation, safety, navigation, and maritime rules.
• Practical exam: Demonstrating boat handling in front of an instructor or examiner.

5. Required Documents

For issuing the license, you will need:

• A photocopy of your passport or national ID card.
• A medical certificate confirming your physical and mental fitness to operate a boat.
• Proof of your valid permit or residency permit in Croatia (if you are a foreigner with temporary or permanent residence).

6. Issuance of the License

After successfully passing the exam, the license will be issued. In most cases, the license will be issued immediately or within a few days.

7. Language Barriers

The course and exam are usually conducted in Croatian, but many schools may offer assistance or materials in English. If you don’t speak Croatian, it’s recommended to check with the school in advance about the availability of English-language materials or courses.

8. Alternative: Recognition of Foreign Licenses

If you already hold a valid boating license from an EU country or a country that has an agreement with Croatia for the recognition of licenses, you may not need to take the exam. In that case, you would only need to register your license and possibly have it translated into Croatian.

If you decide to take the course, I recommend checking with a specific boating school in Šibenik, as they can provide detailed instructions for foreigners.

If you have any additional questions or need help with something specific, feel free to ask!