Examinations and certificates for maritime radio

Each vessel equipped with a maritime radio transmitter (e.g. maritime VHF) must have a radio operator responsible for the maritime radio communications of the vessel. The radio operator must be a holder of an appropriate maritime radio certificate.

• General Operator's Certificate (GOC)
• Restricted Operator's Certificate (ROC)

If the vessel is subject to the requirements of the Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), the radio operator must have a GOC or ROC certificate and an endorsement attesting the recognition of the GOC or ROC certificate.

Pleasure yachts and many of the fishing vessels are usually not bound by the SOLAS Convention. For the radio operator of such a vessel a GOC or ROC certificate is not necessary. It is usually sufficient if the radio operator has one of the following certificates:

• Short Range Certificate (SRC)
• Restricted radiotelephone operator's certificate (VHF)
• Long Range Certificate (LRC)
• Restricted radiotelephone operator's certificate (MF/HF)