The International Certificate of Competence
Most European Countries require by law a formal certificate of competence to be in charge of a small vessel at sea or on inland waterways. These countries have national arrangements for examinations and certificates and there are no 'international' certificates that are formally recognised worldwide or even Europe-wide.
The ICC is intended to provide nationals or residents of the UK with a certificate for leisure use that will be generally acceptable by authorities throughout other European countries. ICCs are endorsed for the following categories of vessel: Sailing Vessels (with auxiliary engine), Power vessels up to 10 metres length, power vessels 10 metres or more in length (up to 24 metres), and personal watercraft.
ICCs are also endorsed for inland or coastal waters.
