If you’ve earned your boating license in Curaçao, you might wonder if you can use it in the Netherlands. The short answer is: no, not automatically.

A boating license issued in Curaçao is not directly recognized for recreational boating in the Netherlands. While the Dutch Vaarbewijs (especially Vaarbewijs 1 and 2) enjoys international recognition through the International Certificate of Competence (ICC), this recognition does not apply in reverse for licenses from the Caribbean.

Likewise, the Dutch boating license is not automatically valid in Curaçao. Curaçao has its own local rules and licensing system that must be followed if you plan to operate a boat here — even if you’re already certified in the Netherlands.

“Both Curaçao and the Netherlands have separate boating license systems. A license from one does not give you automatic permission to operate a boat in the other.”

Key Points to Know:
No Direct Exchange; You cannot simply swap your Curaçao license for a Dutch one, or vice versa. Each country/region has its own requirements.

Recognition Is Not Mutual: The Dutch license is valid in some international waters through the ICC, but not in Curaçao by default. Curaçao-issued licenses are also not accepted in the Netherlands.

Local Rules Apply: In Curaçao, you must follow the local licensing laws, even if you’re visiting from the Netherlands. The same applies the other way around.

Thinking About Both Locations?
If you’re looking to boat both in the Netherlands and Curaçao, we recommend:

Earning a Dutch Vaarbewijs 1 & 2 (with ICC certification)

And completing local training in Curaçao to meet local safety and legal standards

At VaarlesCuracao.com, we specialize in beginner-friendly boating courses tailored to Curaçao’s waters — and we’re happy to help you understand the path to boating internationally.