Marine Radio Operation

Marine radios operate completely differently from mobile phones, giving boat skippers the ability to call or contact multiple vessels at the same time . Being able to correctly use a marine radio is a key safe boating component. Understanding how marine radios function, what channels to us and how to make Distress, Urgency, Safety and Routine calls is of paramount importance. When things don’t go as planned, the weather changes, or you suffer mechanical issues or perhaps a medical problem on board your vessel, then the marine radio is the first ‘go to’ device to obtain assistance. The other advantages are being able to receive adverse marine weather and/or navigational information as well as calls from other vessels that may require assistance.

DSC VHF & MFHF Marine Radios

DSC VHF & MFHF – If you have purchased a DSC capable marine radio – or have purchased a vessel with a DSC marine radio on board, then you will need to obtain a Marine Radio Licence first which will then allow you to obtain a Maritime Mobile Service Identity number (MMSI).  The MMSI number is required to be programmed into the radio to access the full functions of the radio. It is very easy to obtain a Marine Radio Licence with the final exam taking around 20 mins. All mtraining material and resources are provided to make the process as straight forward as possible.  When you have obtained your Marine Radio Licence you can then submit you application to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority who issue the MMSI.

Who should have a Marine Radio Licence?

A Marine Radio Licence is required if you are:

1. Operating Marine VHF and/or MF/HF Radios. This applies to Skippers and Masters of both recreational and commercial vessels. This requirement has been in force for more that 50 years.  The requirement to hold a Marine Radio Licence is simply to ensure marine radio operators have the knowledge to correctly operate Marine VHF and/or MF/HF Radios.

2. If you have a Marine Digital Selective Calling (DSC)VHF and/or MF/HF Radio or if you intend to up grade your radio to the popular and much preferred Digital Selective Calling (DSC) type of radio. To access the full features of these radios requires the radio to be registered and the issue of a Maritime Mobile Service Identity number (MMSI). To obtain an MMSI you need to provide your Marine Radio Licence number.

Click Here to see how to get an MMSI. 

How do I demonstrate the ‘Practical’ component?

I understand there is a practical component to obtaining a Marine Radio Licence. How can I complete this?

The above question is probably the most common question we receive.  The answer, by the way is very simple. This is because we provide all candidates with access to simple simulated devices for both VHF Marine Radios and MF/HF Marine Radios. The process just requires you to follow instructions to click on links and read from a pre prepared script. This process takes only about 4-5 minutes. 

What is involved in sitting the final Marine Radio Licence Exam?

The above question is probably the 2nd most common question we receive.  The final exam is conducted via Zoom.  This is an extremely simple process where you just need to clink on a link that is emailed to you and it will automatically connect your device camera with the Invigilator (Exam Supervisor). Once connected you complete the exam with the Invigilator present on his/her device. While you have 1 hour to complete the exam most candidates will complete it in about 20 mins for the MF/HF  Marine Radio exam (50 multiple choice questions) or 10-15 mins for the VHF Marine Radio  exam (25 multiple choice questions.

What if I fail the exam?  

If this were to happen you are permitted to resit the exam. On the positive side we have been conducting marine radio licence exams online for over 12 years. In this time we have conducted close to 9000 exams. We have no record of anyone failing the Marine Radio Licence exam by simply following the steps we have in place. In fact our system works so well that the majority of candidates who complete the course with True North Marine either obtain a 100% pass mark or are in the 90%+ category. This is something we are very proud of and gives us the confidence to make the above claims.

Coastal Navigation – This is not a complex area but it is vitally important whether you are travelling across the harbour or bay or on a coastal voyage. All boat Skippers and Masters should have the basic ability to read a nautical chart. This includes the basics of understanding Latitude and Longitude as well the ability to read and interpret the many symbols used on nautical charts. This basic knowledge is designed to ensure you can keep your boat, and the people on board, safe.