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Marine pilot licences
Find out about marine pilot licences, including how to qualify, how to apply, when they expire, and how to get an exemption.
A marine pilot is an experienced seafarer with extensive local knowledge who assists a vessel master with the safe navigation of their vessel.
The Department of Transport (DoT) licenses marine pilots for ports gazetted under the Shipping and Pilotage Act 1967.
To be eligible to apply for a marine pilot licence, you must:
- hold a current certificate of competency
- have satisfactorily completed an approved training course
- have completed trips acting as a pilot under the direct supervision of a licensed marine pilot
- have adequate skill and knowledge of the relevant pilotage area.
Apply for a marine pilot licence
To apply for a marine pilot licence, you will need to submit the following:
- completed marine pilot licence application form (below)
- 2 passport size photographs
- copy of your certificate of competency
- log book of pilotage experience
- curriculum vitae showing your maritime training and experience
- health certificate
- evidence of satisfactorily completing an approved marine pilot training course.
You will also be required to pay a registration fee.
Ensure that all documentation is clearly labelled and typed in Arial size 12 font. You may use the approved log book or provide your own provided it contains all the details required.
Submit your application by mail to:
Harbour Master
Maritime, Department of Transport
GPO Box C102
Perth WA 6839
Marine pilot licence applications are assessed and approved by DoT.
Allow at least 2 weeks for processing of your application.
Incomplete applications will not be processed.
| Marine pilot licence application form: Initial (commercial vessels) | Kb | |
Renew your marine pilot licence
Marine pilot licences are valid for 5 years.
You are responsible for ensuring your licence is current.
To renew your current licence, you must submit your renewal application at least 28 days prior to the expiry date on your marine pilot licence card.
How to renew
To renew your marine pilot licence, you will need to submit the following:
- completed marine pilot licence renewal form (below)
- 2 passport photographs
- copy of your certificate of competency
- log book of pilotage experience
- health certificate
- evidence of satisfactorily completing an approved marine pilot training course.
You will also need to pay a renewal fee.
Submit your application by mail to:
Harbour Master,
Marine Safety, Department of Transport,
GPO Box C102,
Perth WA 6839
| Marine pilot licence application form: Renewal (commercial vessels) | Kb | |