Skippers Licence FAQ | Online Course Questions Answered | SkipperSA

Question 1

Do I need a skippers licence?

Accepted Answer

Any person operating a vessel with an engine of more than 15hp must hold a valid SAMSA Certificate of Competence. A vessel with an engine of 10hp or less does not require one, but a person under 16 must be supervised by a licence holder.

Question 2

Which category should I choose?

Accepted Answer

Category R covers all inland waters, estuaries, lagoons and ports. Category E is for vessels going up to 1 nautical mile offshore and is also required for jet ski and PWC operation. Category D is coastal, Category C goes up to 15nm offshore, and Category B up to 40nm.

Question 3

Can I upgrade my category later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can always upgrade to a higher category later on. An upgrade requires you to complete the relevant theory examination again for the new category, as well as a separate practical examination.

Question 4

How many exam attempts do I get?

Accepted Answer

You receive two attempts at the final examination. If you fail both, you are required to redo all chapter module tests before you will be granted access to the exam again.

Question 5

How long do I have to complete the course?

Accepted Answer

There is no time limit to complete your studies. You can study at your own pace and return to any lesson at any time before sitting your final exam.

Question 6

What is the pass mark?

Accepted Answer

Chapter tests require 80% or more to unlock the next lesson. The final exam pass mark is 75%.

Question 7

When do I receive my Certificate of Attendance?

Accepted Answer

Immediately on passing the final exam. You can download a PDF Certificate of Attendance directly from your student portal.

Question 8

How long is my Certificate of Attendance valid for?

Accepted Answer

Your Certificate of Attendance is valid for 2 years from the date of issue.

Question 9

How long is my account valid after I receive my Certificate of Attendance?

Accepted Answer

Your account remains accessible for 3 months after your Certificate of Attendance is issued. After this period, access to the course platform will close.

Question 10

Can I get a refund?

Accepted Answer

No. All payments are final and non-refundable, regardless of the reason. Please make sure you have selected the correct category before paying. See our Refund Policy for full details.

Question 11

What happens if I fail the SAMSA exam?

Accepted Answer

The SAMSA exam paper is divided into modules for which you must get 50% to 60% per module, depending on the module. Experience has shown that some students might have a problem with one module while doing well in others. Most examiners will invite the student back, revisit the problem module and let him or her rewrite that module. This is normally at no extra cost. The objective of a good instructor is always to ensure that students understand the material and can write the exam successfully.

Question 12

Can I do an oral exam instead of writing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can. Some people clamp up when writing an exam, or may have a condition such as dyslexia or stress that makes written exams difficult. A person other than the lecturer can be appointed to conduct the oral exam.

Question 13

Can I upgrade from an R-licence to an E-licence?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can. As soon as you have the required sea hours, you can apply to SAMSA for an upgrade. Marine Notice 13 of 2011 states that only one basic entry level exists, and practical experience (sea time) determines which of the two licences is issued. A Skipper Inland Waters can upgrade his certificate to an E by obtaining sea time on Category E or higher vessels.

Question 14

How do I upgrade from E to C?

Accepted Answer

To upgrade from E to C you will need to:

Question 15

How can I ensure I am not writing my exam with a dubious examiner?

Accepted Answer

All SAMSA examiners must be registered with SAMSA and will be issued with an examiner number. If you are unsure, you can ask the examiner for his or her registration certificate (valid examiners will not have an issue providing a copy), or you can contact SAMSA on +27 (0)12 366 2600 and ask if the examiner is registered.

Question 16

I have lost my licence. What can I do?

Accepted Answer

You can contact SAMSA directly to request a copy of your licence. SAMSA can be reached on (012) 366-2600. Keep your ID number ready as their system has a record of who handed your application in, when the licence was issued, and who collected it.

Question 17

I completed my course and was issued an interim licence but never received my permanent licence. What do I do?

Accepted Answer

The interim licence is valid for 6 months and SAMSA will most of the time issue the permanent licence within this period. The first step is to contact the examiner who signed your interim licence. The name and number should be at the bottom of the page. If you cannot get hold of the examiner or are not satisfied with the response, you can contact SAMSA directly at their head office in Pretoria on 012 366 2600. Keep your ID number ready.

Question 18

What if, after I enrolled, I realise this method of study is not for me?

Accepted Answer

Your satisfaction is extremely important to us. If for any reason you are not satisfied with the course, you can contact us for a refund provided that the cancellation is within 7 days of the enrolment date and you have not completed more than 2 modules of the course. Contact us at info@skippersa.co.za.

Question 19

Are SAMSA licences recognised internationally?

Accepted Answer

South Africa has agreements with countries in terms of the STCW Convention, whereby each other certificates are recognised. Contact SAMSA or visit the SAMSA website for a full list of countries.

Question 20

When doing the online course, can I get support if I need more information on a subject?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Students have access to a message system inside their portal which allows them to get in direct contact with support at any time during their studies.