Applying for a replacement copy of a recreational craft license

If you have lost your recreational boating license or need another replacement, you can apply for a replacement.

If you have lost your recreational boating license for inland waterways and/or maritime waterways or need a replacement, you can apply for a replacement.

You can also transfer your old license to a recreational craft license card, change your name or have conditions removed. The recreational craft license is issued as an international certificate within the meaning of UNECE Resolution No. 40 as a driving license card.

• if possible: copy of the driving license to be replaced, with details of the place and date of the test
• Current passport photo (35 mm x 45 mm, without headgear), sent digitally
• completed SEPA direct debit mandate for the issue fee, plus foreign postage if applicable
• Copy of the name change certificate, if applicable

• Possession of the official recreational craft license

• Contradiction
  • Further information on how to lodge an objection can be found in the notification of your application for a replacement copy.
• Legal action before the locally competent administrative court

You can apply for a replacement copy of your license to drive recreational craft on federal waterways online or by post at the offices of the associations appointed by the BMDV.

Online application:

• Go to the federal portal.
• Select the application for a replacement recreational craft license.
• Complete the application and upload the required files.
• Send the application digitally.
• The fee will be collected by SEPA direct debit.

Postal application:

• Download the current application form from the association's website:
  • Deutscher Motoryachtverband e. V.
  • German Sailing Association e. V.
• Fill out the application form.
• Send the application with the required documents by post.
• The fee will be collected by SEPA direct debit.

If your application has been approved, you will receive your driving license by post. In all other cases, the authorized association will contact you directly.

There is no deadline.

These costs are incurred for the replacement copy. The costs may vary if additional services are required, for example for shipping abroad.: Fee 41,59 EUR (The amount is to be paid in advance) (Information on cost composition can be found here)

• This application also applies to the first issue of a recreational craft license.
• This application is not valid for the initial issue of a license.
• This application is not valid
  • for the transfer of an official authorization or qualification to drive passenger or goods transport vehicles or
  • an official authorization that has been recognized as equivalent by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV).