Marine VHF Radio FAQ’s
Does the RYA have a page of information about the Short Range Certificate?
Yes, “Marine Radio SRC”, on the RYA website.
Does Broadside Sailing charge an additional “Exam Attendance fee”?
No, if you take the online or classroom course with Broadside Sailing.
Yes, £35.00, if you only take the exam at Broadside Sailing.
Is there an alternative to taking an online course?
Yes, there is. You can take a 7 hour classroom course (plus 3 hours of self-study).
Can I just take the exam and assessment without taking a course?
No, you can’t. You must successfully complete either a classroom course, or pass an online pre-assessment check from the online course, before you will be eligible to take the exam. (There are only a few exemptions, e.g. possession of some aviation GMDSS radio operator certificates)
What is the exam like?
The exam consists of a short, written exam paper and a practical assessment, which takes about an hour. The exam covers all aspects of the syllabus, which is covered by both the RYA online course and during the classroom course. Allow up to another hour for administration, familiarising yourself with the radios and a short break.
Is there a minimum age for the SRC Radio Certificate?
The minimum age to take the exam and hold the SRC Radio Operator’s Certificate is 16 years old.
Will Broadside Sailing run an exam for a group; e.g. a dive club or sailing club etc?
Yes, please contact us for a quote
If I pass the course, can I teach my crew on the boat how to use the VHF radio?
Yes, when you have passed the VHF SRC radio course you can ask a member of crew to use the radio under your supervision.
I have a pre-1999 restricted VHF radio certificate. Can I upgrade it to include Digital Selective Calling (DSC)?
Yes, you can upgrade the restricted Marine VHF radio licence, but it’s unlikely that you will pass the new examination without taking the online course or a classroom course to update your knowledge.
I have purchased a second-hand radio with DSC. Can I fit it to my boat?
Any radio equipment must be “Type Approved”. Beware of buying second-hand radios bought from online auction sites or boat-sales. Radios suitable for use in US waters need to be capable of using international channels.
Every DSC radio has a unique call sign and MMSI number, issued by Ofcom. The MMSI cannot be changed by an end user once entered. Only the manufacturer or a radio agent can then change the MMSI. You must apply to Ofcom for a new Ship’s Radio Licence, which will show a new call-sign and new MMSI Number. A radio manufacturer or a radio agent can then program into your second- hand radio.
I have bought a new radio for my boat. What do I do?
You can program the MMSI into a brand new radio, but once entered you can not change it yourself if you get it wrong, or want to use the radio on a different boat. You must get a radio agent to change it.
I only have a hand-held VHF radio, what type of licence do I need?
You will need a ship’s portable licence issued by Ofcom. The hand-held VHF radio licence will be issued to you with an international callsign, which includes the letter “T” to denote that it is a transportable and licensed to an individual and not the vessel. You still need to have passed the exam to use it legally
I’m going to use my radio in the European inland water ways. Do I need Automatic Transmitter Identification System (ATIS) fitted to my radio?
Yes, you will need to upgrade your set to transmit ATIS. For more info click: https://licensing.ofcom.org.uk/radiocommunication-licences/ships-radio/faq/atis-faq
I have just purchased an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). Who do I register it with in the UK?
You register it on the EPIRB Registry with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCGA) in Falmouth.
I am a Sea Kayaker and have been told that as well as a VHF hand held radio and mobile phone, I can get a PLB. What type do you suggest?
We suggest a small Personal Location Beacon (PLB), such as a “FASTFIND” made by McMurdo. It’s totally waterproof and has a GPS 50 channel receiver inside for better location in an emergency situation. For more information Click here for the “Fastfind” website
How long does it take for my licence to arrive?
Up to 21 days, but usually this is much sooner – sometimes 7-10 days. A “Fast-Track” option is available, for an additional fee.
