Launch Driving Before being allowed to drive a Thames RC launch there are certain requirements which you must meet.
- You must be a member of Thames RC (House member is sufficient), as this ensures that you are insured to drive the boat.
- We also strongly recommend that you have current ARA membership as this provides you with additional 3rd part insurance cover when coaching.
- To drive a launch whilst accompanied by another launch driver (in the boat with you), you must have completed Level 0 of the Steering Certificate.
- To drive the launch unaccompanied (in normal conditions) you must have also successfully completed Level 2 of the Steering Certificate to demonstrate that you understand the Tideway navigation rules plus a practical test in launch driving and handling to demonstrate your competence.
Launch Driver’s Certificate
Level 0 – as per Steering Certificate Level 0
Completion of Level 0 allows you to drive a launch in normal conditions when accompanied in the launch by another launch driver who has reached Level 2 of the Launch Driver’s Certificate.
Level 1 – not applicable for Launch Driver’s Certificate
Level 2 – written test as per Steering Certificate Level 2
Completion of the written (multiple choice) test on the Tideway Code and navigation on the Tideway.
Level 2 – practical assessment
Completion of an on-the-water launch driving test. You will be tested against a number of competences which are detailed in the attached launch driving syllabus (attach launch syllabus).
To take a launch out unaccompanied in normal conditions, you must have completed both the Level 2 written and Level 2 practical assessments.
Level 3 – as per Steering Certificate Level 3
Completion of this assessment allows you to take out a coaching launch unaccompanied in difficult conditions or in the dark when accompanied in the launch by another launch driver who has reached Level 4 of the launch Driver’s Certificate.
Level 4 – as per Steering Certificate Level 4
Completion of this on the water assessment allows you to take out a coaching launch in the dark unaccompanied.
Summary
| Level |
Ability |
Assessment |
Permitted to drive |
|
0
|
Beginner
|
Confirm reading and understanding of all relevant safety docs
|
In normal confitions when accompanied in the launch with a Level 2 Launch Driver
|
|
1
|
Basic
|
Not applicable for Launch Driver's Certificate
|
|
|
2
|
Competent
|
Passed written test and practical launch driving assessment
|
Unaccompanied in normal conditions, and in difficult conditions when accompanied in the launch by a Level 3 Launch Driver
|
|
3
|
Advanced
|
Completed 10 outings, of which 3 are in the dark, and passed verbal test
|
Unaccompanied in normal or difficult conditions, and in the dark when accompanied in the launch by a Level 4 Launch Driver
|
|
4
|
Expert
|
Completed 30 further outings, of which 10 are in the dark, and passed practical test |
Unaccompanied in the dark, or in dark + difficult conditions |
| Conditions |
Accompanied
|
Alone
|
| Normal |
0
|
2
|
| Difficult |
2
|
3
|
| Dark or 2 x Difficult |
3
|
4
|
| Dark + Difficult |
3
|
4
|
August 2009 | 
