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. In the context of recreational boating, it is the document that gives the skipper authorization to operate maritime frequencies for radio communication, whether to transmit or receive information.

In short, the radio license is the document that allows boaters 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 signage or an Unidentified Floating Object with a safety message if necessary
Transmit an emergency or distress message to rescue services, request assistance, be accompanied in case of first aid to be performed on board, and above all, be located more quickly in case of breakdown

At a time when almost all boaters have a cell phone, it's worth remembering that VHF equipment has a significantly longer range at sea, which can really make a difference: it allows for contact with the appropriate rescue service, which will intervene more quickly.

Did you know? Beyond 6 nautical miles from a shelter, it is mandatory to have a fixed VHF radio on board your boat.

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 radio station on board. Several devices are concerned: the VHF, whether fixed or mobile, but also the AIS transponder, the EPIRB beacon, or the 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 a Sea Permit or a Restricted Radiotelephony Certificate (CRR), Maritime or Inland, they must be in possession of a radio license. Indeed, 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 the administrative authorities.

The only exception to the rule: if the maximum power of the device is less than 6 watts, and it does not have the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) function. In this case, the equipment can be used without a radio license and no information is attached to the equipment.

How to obtain a radio license?

To apply for a radiomaritime license from the administration, several documents must be gathered.

The boater will need to complete an information form, providing their contact details and the make and model of the device concerned, among other things. They will attach proof of identity, ownership, and vessel registration, as well as proof of legal entity if the boat belongs to a company or an association.

Once the formality is completed, the applicant will receive their updated radio license annually via digital means.

Any change of ownership of a boat must result in an update of the radio licence, supported by a bill of sale for the vessel. An owner who changes boats, even if they keep the same VHF equipment, is also required to amend their radio licence 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 licence under the vessel's flag of registration.

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. Comprising 9 digits, it corresponds to the entire file provided during the application: it includes the owner's identity, details of the radio equipment, details of the boat... all information likely to be transmitted to emergency services during an emergency or distress call, to facilitate their intervention.

As an owner, it is therefore important to ensure that the various information linked to your file is subsequently updated, to guarantee your safety!

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

Did you know? It's 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 get an MMSI number?

As you understand, as a boater, the transmission of your information depends on the MMSI number. Configured onboard, on your radio 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.

It should also be noted that the contact details of people to be contacted in case of emergency are also provided: your loved ones can thus be notified in case of a serious problem.

Do you want to make a first request or a modification of your radio license? Entrust us with your project! Bateau-immatriculation.com takes care of your paperwork so you can go sailing without delay.