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2.6 Do I Need a Radio Station License?
The information in this section is provided for informational purposes only. Always check the FCC’s website at
http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/index.htm?job=licensing&id=ship_stations or call toll-free 1-888-CALLFCC (225-
5322) for the latest information.
You do not need a license to operate a marine VHF radio, radar, or EPIRBs aboard voluntary ships operating
domestically. The term "voluntary ships" refers to ships that are not required by law to carry a radio. Generally, this
term applies to recreation or pleasure craft. The term "voluntary ships" does not apply to the following:
1. Cargo ships over 300 gross tons navigating in the open sea;
2. Ships certified by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry more than 6 passengers for hire in the open sea or
tidewaters of the U.S.;
3. Power driven ships over 20 meters in length on navigable waterways;
4. Ships of more than 100 gross tons certified by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry at least one passenger
on navigable waterways;
5. Tow boats of more than 7.8 meters in length on navigable waterways; and,
6. Uninspected commercial fishing industry vessels required to carry a VHF radio.
7. Ships required to carry an Automatic Identification System (AIS) transceiver by the U.S. Coast Guard
regulations enacted pursuant to the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2000.
Ships are considered as operating domestically when they do not travel to foreign ports or do not transmit radio
communications to foreign stations. Sailing in international waters is permitted, so long as the previous conditions are
met. If you travel to a foreign port (e.g., Canada, Mexico, Bahamas, British Virgin Islands), a license is required.
Additionally, if you travel to a foreign port, you are required to have an operator permit.
2.7 Commercial Vessels World Wide
406 MHz beacons that are carried on commercial vessels world wide should be registered with the country where the
vessel is flagged regardless of where the vessel operates. When a commercial vessel acquires a 406 MHz beacon
from outside of its home country, the beacon should be reprogrammed for the home country and registered there.
2.8 Registration Outside the United States
In countries other than the United States, 406 MHz beacons are registered with that country’s national authority at the
time of purchase. The sales agent should assist in filling out the forms and sending to that country’s national authority.
To verify that the unit is properly programmed for that country, view the UIN label on the side of the unit. In the event
that the beacon is not programmed for the country it has been purchased in, the sales agent, (if properly equipped) can
reprogram the unit for that country.
2.9 Change of Ownership or Contact Information
It is the owner’s responsibility to advise the national authority of any change in the information on the registration form.
If the current owner of the beacon is transferring the beacon to a new owner, the current owner is required to inform
the national authority by using their online database or by letter, fax or telephone, of the name and address of the new
owner. The new owner of the beacon is required to provide the national authority with all of the information requested
on the registration form. This obligation transfers to all subsequent owners. Registration forms for the United States are
available from NOAA by calling +1 (888) 212-7283 or by visiting our website at http://www.acrelectronics.com.
2.10 Lost or Stolen EPIRBs
Inform NOAA immediately at 1-888-212-SAVE (7283), or your national authority, that your EPIRB has been lost or
stolen. They will update your EPIRB registration information with the appropriate information.
Stolen EPIRBs - Things That You Need To Do:
Report to your local authorities that the EPIRB has been stolen.
Contact NOAA at 1-888-212-SAVE (7283), or your national authority, with the following information so
your EPIRB registration information can be updated with the appropriate remarks:
- Police Department Name - Police Phone Number - Police Case Number
If your EPIRB were to be activated, the information you provided will be forwarded to the appropriate search and
rescue authorities who will ensure that your EPIRB gets back to you. If someone attempts to register an EPIRB
reported as stolen, NOAA or your national authority will notify the appropriate police department. Visit
http://www.cospas-sarsat.org for more detailed information.
