Module 1 of 10
Licensing & SRC Exam
Who needs the SRC, what the exam covers, and how the RYA course and assessment fit together.
What the SRC Covers
The Marine Radio Short Range Certificate is the operator qualification associated with marine VHF and VHF Digital Selective Calling equipment on UK flagged vessels. This revision guide helps you practice the knowledge and spoken procedure, but it does not issue a certificate.
The official route still involves appropriate RYA SRC training or eligible prior radio certification, followed by an SRC exam at an RYA Recognised Training Centre.
Key Points
- SRC is about the operator, not only the radio set
- The exam includes theory and practical radio use
- This site is a revision companion, not an official course
Course, Exam, and Fees
The RYA describes the SRC course as 10 hours plus exam time. The exam includes a written theory paper and a practical assessment using marine VHF radios.
The RYA exam fee is paid separately from most course or revision products. Check the latest RYA page and your chosen training centre before booking.
Key Points
- Online study does not remove the need for an in-person practical exam
- Training-centre course fees and exam attendance fees can vary
- Bring the paperwork and ID requested by the centre
Ship Radio Licensing
Do not confuse the operator certificate with the licence for the radio equipment. A vessel radio installation and a portable handheld radio can have different licensing arrangements.
For revision, remember the practical link: licensing provides identities such as callsigns and MMSI numbers, while the SRC prepares you to use the equipment correctly.
Key Points
- Operator certificate: proves the person is qualified
- Ship or portable licence: authorises the equipment
- MMSI identity must match the licensed equipment arrangement