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> How to get an RST  
DPI Home | Marine information | Certificates and qualifications | Recreational Skipper's Ticket | How to get an RST

How to get an RST

If you do not hold a recognised qualification you must have your skills assessed by an RST authorised assessor. A list of authoised assessors is available in Publications.

Once you pass your assessment the assessor will issue you with an interim certificate, your details will then be forwarded to the Department who will issue you with your RST Card. This may take up to two months.

The assessment

The assessments will test your skills and knowledge in the two following sections:

Theoretical section

The theory assessment will take about 60 minutes and consists of 30 multiple-choice questions. You will need to get at least 24 correct before progressing to the practical assessment.

The multiple-choice paper will assess your knowledge and understanding of:

  • rules and regulations;
     
  • international collision rules;
     
  • buoyage and other navigation aids;
     
  • navigation lights;
     
  • maintenance of vessel, motor and equipment;
     
  • safety equipment required to be carried;
     
  • trip planning, and responsibilities to passengers; and
     
  • distress signals, and response to distress and other emergencies.

Practical section

The practical assessment effectively requires you to demonstrate a well-conducted boating trip, including preparation and vessel manoeuvring. Specific tasks you will be assessed on include:

  • throughout the assessment, operating within the rules and regulations; 
     
  • checking the condition of a vessel’s anchoring gear and berthing lines and hardware;
     
  • conducting a safety briefing for all on board;
     
  • starting the motor safely;
     
  • logging a voyage plan;
     
  • safely departing a berth;
     
  • conducting a simulated man overboard operation;
     
  • steering a steady course with the aid of a transit;
     
  • performing a controlled stop;
     
  • returning to a berth and securing the vessel; and
     
  • logging off.

The practical assessment will take about 60 minutes and requires you to skipper a vessel through the above tasks. 

What you must provide to the assessor

Eyesight declaration

To hold an RST you must have a minimum corrected vision standard of at least 6/12, in at least one eye.

A valid Western Australian Motor Driver’s Licence will be accepted as proof of adequate eyesight to be in charge of a recreational powerboat.

If you don’t hold a Western Australian Motor Driver’s Licence you will need to have a medical practitioner or optometrist complete the separate eyesight assessment form.

View Forms

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Medical fitness declaration

A serious medical condition could conceivably affect your ability to operate a recreational vessel safely. A self-declared medical statement is required before obtaining the RST.  You must advise the Department if you suffer from the condition/s indicated below.

  • Epilepsy, fits, giddiness, fainting, seizures;
     
  • Heart disease;
     
  • High/low blood pressure;
     
  • Arthritis;
     
  • Type 1 diabetes; or
     
  • Any physical or mental disability that could affect your ability to operate a motor vessel safely.

If you suffer from any of the above listed conditions, you must have a medical practitioner complete a Medical Declaration form.

View Forms.  

Letter of consent

If you’re under 18, you must have a letter of consent signed by your parent or legal guardian prior to assessment. If your surname differs from your parent’s or legal guardian’s surname, you must produce primary identification to prove your relationship to them. A proforma letter of consent is available in Forms

Proof of Identity requirements

Refer to Proof of Identity (POI) for full details on the Department's requirements.

How much will it cost?

The RST authorised assessor will charge you a fee for assessment. This fee is not regulated by the Department so it would be wise to shop around for the best deal.YouYou may re-sit the assessment as many times as you require; however, you may be required to pay the assessment fee on each attempt. 

There are no government fees or charges associated with the RST and the ticket is valid for your lifetime.

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Department for Planning & Infrastructure