Course info
The Short Range Certificate (SRC) is the minimum qualification required by law for those using VHF and VHF Digital Selective Calling (DSC) equipment on board any British flagged vessel, which is voluntarily fitted with a radio (this includes both fixed and handheld equipment).
You’ll be sent a pack ahead of the course with instructions on what to prepare prior to attending. This will give you the opportunity to read through the pre-course material and VHF handbook. A key area you should practise is the phonetic alphabet.
Course topics include:
- Routine operation of marine VHF radio, including Digital Selective Calling
- The correct VHF channels (frequencies) to be used for each type of communication
- Distress, emergency and medical assistance procedures
- Ship to shore communication
- Practical use of Marine VHF DSC radios
- Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)
- Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB)
- Search and Rescue Transponders (SART)
The exam
The exam is a combination of a written theory test and practical assessment in the use of Marine VHF DSC radios. Candidates must be 16 years or older on the day of the exam.
Please see this page for more information on eligibility, arranging and paying for the SRC exam.