Who can legally use a DSC/VHF Marine Radio

Short Range Certificate, or SRC

Different countries may have their own rules about qualifications for using the Marine Band DSC/VHF radios onboard ship or on land.

Ofcom is the UK's radio licence issuing authority. Read more about Ofcom

In the UK, you can use a DSC/VHF marine radio without an SRC (or other qualifying licence) if:

  • You are under the supervision of someone who holds an SRC
  • You are using a private channel (such as Ch M or M2)
  • You are in distress

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