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RYA/MCA VHF-GMDSS Radio Course
Having a personal Short Range Certificate (SRC) licence is crucial for safety when using VHF radios on the water and is a legal requirement when operating Class D radios, which are commonly found on most leisure craft.
This SRC course will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to operate fixed and handheld VHF radios with DSC functionality, ensuring effective communication and adherence to safety procedures.
Please note, whilst the SRC licence is generally accepted internationally for operators on British flagged boats, individuals operating radios on foreign craft are advised to contact the appropriate national authority.
Course Overview- VHF Radio Usage: Learn correct channel usage and safety, urgent, and distress procedures.
- GMDSS: Understand the Global Marine Distress and Safety System and its significance in maritime communication.
- Prevention of Unnecessary Transmissions: Recognise the importance of avoiding unnecessary transmissions to prevent blocking out Mayday distress calls.
- Radio Simulators: Practise using radio simulators for hands-on learning.
- Examination: Includes a short written test and practical assessment using radio simulators.
- Award of Licence: Upon successful completion of the course and examination, you will be awarded your Short Range Certificate (SRC) licence direct from the RYA.
- Under 16s: Encouraged to attend the course and may operate the radio under supervision.
- 16 years and older: Eligible to take the exam to obtain the SRC License.
Course Content
- 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)
Marine Radio Assessment
The final part of your classroom training will be a 1 hour exam which is split into a short written SRC/VHF exam and then a practical SRC/VHF exam.
For RYA examination fees click here.
What our customers say
I was made to feel very comfortable from the start. It was a great course - thank you.
Tony, RYA VHF-GMDSS Radio Course - January, 2026
Very informative with practical training and familiarity. Roger was an excellent tutor.
Michael, RYA VHF-GMDSS Radio Course - February, 2026
Great course - very informative, with a friendly and knowledgeable instructor. Thank you!
Anne, RYA/MCA VHF-GMDSS Radio Course - May 2026
Very good all round and definitely worth the time. Thanks, Roger!
Luke, RYA VHF-GMDSS Radio Course - May 2026
