Module 1 - Licensing & SRC Exam
SRC Exam Standard
CEPT's current SRC syllabus has five connected areas: general maritime radiocommunications and GMDSS; practical knowledge of VHF, DSC, antennas and power; DSC distress, urgency and safety procedures; radiotelephony; and regulations including documents, records, secrecy, prohibited transmissions and watchkeeping.
The RYA exam combines a written paper with practical use of marine VHF radios. A defensible response therefore has an observable sequence: classify the traffic, select the correct DSC function or voice channel, identify the station, transmit the required information, release push-to-talk and listen for the next procedural step.
Memorised phrases are useful only when attached to the right condition. Channel 70 carries DSC signalling, not voice. Channel 16 has distress, urgency, safety and initial-calling roles, but routine traffic normally moves to an appropriate working channel.
| CEPT syllabus area | Learner performance | Typical weak shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| General knowledge | Explain stations, GMDSS, SAR and MSI | Reciting acronyms without their role |
| Equipment | Set up VHF/DSC, antenna, position and power correctly | Assuming the display proves the inputs are sound |
| DSC procedures | Send, receive and follow up the right priority | Treating DSC as the whole voice message |
| Radiotelephony | Build and respond to clear calls | Memorising words without listening |
| Regulations | Apply licence, records, secrecy and watchkeeping boundaries | Calling all documents 'the radio licence' |
Optional quick check
Section 6 of 9
Why is 'use Channel 70 for the urgent voice call' an incomplete and incorrect exam response?
Sources and factual review
Reviewed 20 August 2026 - Compass Revision editorial review.
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