Marine pilots provide local knowledge and navigational expertise to help vessels move safely through Victorian pilotage waters. Pilotage helps manage navigational risks, protect port infrastructure and support the safe movement of maritime traffic.
Ports Victoria licenses marine pilots under the Marine Safety Act 2010 (Vic). Pilotage is compulsory in designated Victorian waters for many vessels unless an exemption applies.
Use this section to apply for a pilot licence, apply for a Pilot Exemption Certificate, access licensing requirements and find approved pilotage service providers.
Pilot licence
Apply for a licence and learn about eligibility requirements, fees, training and licence progression
Pilot Exemption Certificates
Apply for a new certificate, renew an existing certificate and understand eligibility requirements
Pilotage Service Providers
View approved Pilotage service providers operating in Victorian ports
Licensing requirements
Access the current licensing and training requirements for marine pilots in Victorian ports
Pilotage areas and boundaries
Find out where pilotage is required in Victorian waters and access port boundary plans
Determination updates and historical versions
Access previous versions of the determination and summaries of key changes
Who needs a pilot licence?
A person engaged to navigate a vessel 35 metres or longer in Victorian pilotage waters must hold a valid pilot licence issued under the Marine Safety Act 2010 (Vic), unless exempt.
Marine pilots are employed by approved pilotage service providers and guide vessels safely into and out of Victorian ports.
A separate pilot licence is required for each port.
For information about eligibility requirements, training, fees and applications, visit the Pilot licence page.
Licensing and training requirements
Ports Victoria determines the licensing and training requirements for marine pilots operating in Victorian ports.
These requirements are set out in the Determination: Licensing and training requirements for marine pilots in Victorian ports.
The determination outlines:
- eligibility requirements
- training requirements
- examination requirements
- licence progression requirements
- competency requirements
Under section 252(1) of the Marine Safety Act 2010 (Vic), Ports Victoria may grant a pilot licence if an applicant:
- has the appropriate qualifications, competencies, medical fitness and experience to hold a pilot licence
- meets the requirements determined by Ports Victoria
View the current requirements on the Licensing requirements page.
For information about recent updates and previous editions, visit the Determination updates and historical versions page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is changing on 1 October 2026?
From 1 October 2026, Ports Victoria will administer:
- Marine Pilot Licences
- Pilot Exemption Certificates (PECs)
- Local Knowledge Certificates (LKCs)
Ports Victoria is now the primary contact for applications, renewals and enquiries relating to these licences and certificates. These were previously administered by Safe Transport Victoria.
What is not changing?
Safe Transport Victoria remains Victoria’s maritime safety regulator.
The transition does not change safety obligations, regulatory requirements or compliance arrangements.
Do I need to do anything?
No. If you currently hold a Marine Pilot Licence, Pilot Exemption Certificate or Local Knowledge Certificate, your permission remains valid and no action is required.
Where can I find information about pilotage permissions?
Information about pilotage permissions is available on the Ports Victoria website, including:
- Marine Pilot Licences
- Pilot Exemption Certificates
- Local Knowledge Certificates
- waters requiring pilotage
- pilotage service providers
Where do I submit an application?
Applications should now be submitted through the Ports Victoria website.
Application forms include:
- Application for a Marine Pilot Licence
- Application for a new Pilot Exemption Certificate
- Application for renewal of a Pilot Exemption Certificate
- Applications for a new Local Knowledge Certificate
- Application for renewal of a Local Knowledge Certificate
If you are unsure which form to use, contact Ports Victoria.
What happens to applications already in progress?
Ports Victoria and Safe Transport Victoria are working together to transition applications already being assessed.
The transition will not affect applications currently in progress. A regulatory team member will contact you to provide an update on your application.
How do I pay my fees?
By direct bank deposit.
Ports Victoria will issue fee payment advice with details on how to pay.
How long are permissions valid?
Pilot licence
A pilot licence remains in force unless suspended, cancelled or otherwise affected under relevant legislation.
Pilot Exemption Certificate
A Pilot Exemption Certificate is valid for 2 years and must be renewed before it expires.
Local Knowledge Certificate
A Local Knowledge Certificate is valid for 5 years and must be renewed before it expires.
Who do I contact if I have a question?
Contact Ports Victoria for enquiries relating to Marine Pilot Licences, Pilot Exemption Certificates and Local Knowledge Certificates.
Email: PV.Licensing@ports.vic.gov.au
Business Hours Phone: 8347 8380
What if I need help?
Ports Victoria will monitor and respond to enquiries and accept feedback from 1 October 2026.
We will continue to update information and guidance to help applicants and permission holders access services and find the information they need.
Where can I find more information?
Visit the Ports Victoria website for: