Pleasure craft radiocommunication: radio license and MMSI

What is a maritime radio license?

The maritime radio license, or boat radio license, is an official document that authorizes the use of a VHF transceiver device. In the context of pleasure boating, it is the document that gives the skipper the authorization to operate maritime frequencies for radio communication, whether to transmit or receive information.

In short, the radio license is the document that allows the boater to navigate safely by offering them several possibilities. For example:

Communicate with other boats, port authorities, or maritime operators
Stay informed about the weather and any potential risks in their navigation area, report a problem with maritime signaling or an Unidentified Floating Object via a safety message if necessary
Transmit an emergency or distress message to rescue services, request assistance, be guided through first aid procedures on board, and, most importantly, be located more quickly in the event of a breakdown

At a time when almost all boaters have a mobile phone, remember that VHF-type equipment has a significantly longer range at sea, which can truly make a difference: it allows you to connect with the appropriate rescue service, which will intervene more quickly.

Did you know? — Beyond 6 miles from a shelter, carrying a fixed VHF radio on board your boat is mandatory.

Obtain a radio license for my boat

Is a radio license mandatory?

Obtaining a radio license is necessary for all boaters wishing to use a radiocommunication station on board. Several devices are covered: VHF, whether fixed or mobile, as well as the AIS transponder, EPIRB beacon, or radar, which can also be registered on the license.

Holding a permit or diploma does not exempt the boater from this obligation: even if they have the Sea Permit or the Restricted Operator's Certificate (CRR), whether Maritime or Fluvial, they must be in possession of a radio license. While the permit or certificate attests to a level of competence, the radio license justifies the registration of the equipment and the communication of all necessary information to administrative authorities.

The only exception to the rule: if the device's maximum power is less than 6 watts and it is not equipped with the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) function. In that case, the equipment can be used without a radio license, and no information is linked to the equipment.

How to obtain a radio license?

To apply for a maritime radio license from the administration, there are several documents to gather.

The boater will need to fill out an information form, where they will notably provide their contact details, the brand, and the model of the device in question. They will attach proofs of identity, ownership, and vessel registration, as well as proof of legal entity if the boat belongs to a company or association.

Once the formality is completed, the applicant will receive their updated radio license every year digitally.

Good to know — Any change in boat ownership must lead to an update of the radio license, supported by the vessel's bill of sale. A owner who changes boats, even if they keep the same VHF equipment, is also required to have their radio license modified to be compliant... and safe! The same applies when purchasing a boat under a foreign flag: the new owner is required to obtain a radio license under the vessel's registration flag.

What is an MMSI number?

The Maritime Mobile Service Identity, or MMSI, is a number assigned to a boat owner when they obtain a radio license. Consisting of 9 digits, it corresponds to the complete file provided during the application: it includes the owner's identity, details of the radio equipment, and boat details... all information that can be transmitted to rescue services during an emergency or distress call to facilitate their intervention.

As an owner, it is therefore important to ensure the various information linked to your file is kept up to date to guarantee your safety!

Not all pleasure radiocommunication equipment requires an MMSI number: it must be entered into the interface of fixed MF/HF VHF or mobile radios equipped with DSC, EPIRB distress beacons, SSB, etc.

Did you know? — It is possible to have a radio license without necessarily holding an MMSI number; the issuance of a Maritime Mobile Service Identity depends on the equipment on board!

Why obtain an MMSI number?

As you have understood, as a boater, it is the MMSI number that your information transmission depends on. Configured on board on your radiocommunication station, the MMSI allows your data to be sent to the relevant services in the event of an emergency or distress call from your device. If needed, rescuers will have access to all the information in your file and will be able to intervene quickly and appropriately.

Note also that the contact details for people to reach in case of an emergency are also recorded: your loved ones can thus be notified in case of a serious problem.

Do you wish to make an initial application or a modification to a radio license? Entrust us with your project! Bateau-immatriculation.com handles your paperwork so that you can set sail without delay.

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