VHF Certificate for Dept.of Transport Ships Radio Licence
The course is approved by the Dept of Transport Marine Radio Affairs Unit. It is the Short Range Certificate of Competency (VHF). for Dept.Of Transport Ships Radio Licence, It covers the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) including VHF Radio DSC Digital Selective Calling (DSC) which is incorporated in all new Marine VHF radios and greatly enhances rescue.
The legal requirement is best explained by paragraph 1 of the license application.
• "1. In accordance with the Wireless Telegraphy Act, 1926, the appropriate licence must be held to cover possession or use of radio equipment. Possession or use of radio equipment without a licence is an offence, which renders the offender liable to prosecution and, on conviction, fines and confiscation of equipment."
To operate a radio you must have a license and you must have a Certificate of Competency and authority to operate before the application is processed. While owners of recreational craft, e.g., yachts, sail cruisers, motor cruisers, etc., are not required to install a radio system, nevertheless if they opt to install a radio system on a voluntary basis, they must also carry a Ship Radio License on board.
The examination consists of two papers Safety of Life at Sea and Rules and Regulations. There is also a VHF Exercise and Practical (15 min). The course is held over two days. The cost is €280 per student which includes examination fee and application for certificate. The exam is normally conducted straight after the course.
What the Course covers ;
- Background information on the GMDSS system and its equipment and licensing requirements.
- Radio rules and regulations.
- Operation of marine VHF equipment including DSC functions.
- The phonetic alphabet.
- Basic radio language and protocols including pro words such as over, say again, out etc.
- Correct use of the various channels.
- How to make calls to other stations.
- How to send a Distress Alert and Distress Message (Mayday).
- How to send an urgency alert and a safety call.
- Sit the short written exam upon successful completion of which you will be issued with the "Irish Certificate of Competence and Authority to Operate"
