RYA GMDSS VHF Short Range Certificate
The Short Range Certificate is the qualification required by law if you operate a VHF radio fitted with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) on any British vessel voluntarily fitted with a radio.
This course forms part of the under 16.5m Skippers Ticket, which the MCA intends to make mandatory.
Course Content
This course is taught using radio simulators and covers the following topics:
• The basics of radio operation
• The correct frequencies (channels) to be used
• Distress, emergency and medical assistance procedures
• Making ship to shore telephone calls
• Digital Selective Calling (DSC) using simulators
• Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)
• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB)
• Search and Rescue (SART)
Examination Type
Short written test at the end of the day plus practical demonstration using radios
Other fees and requirements
This course also requires:
- £60 RYA Licence fee (included in £270 fee)
- Passport size photo with candidate’s name on the back
Certificates will be sent directly to candidates by the RYA on successful completion of the exam.
