VHF Radio Operators’ Certificate

Cobra Marine MR F75 EU+ VHF Radio

A Cobra Marine MR F75 EU VHF Radio was fitted to the yacht that we purchased.

According to the user manual the radio includes the following features:

• 1 or 25 watt power (for near or distant calling).
• Instant access to channel 16 for emergency situations.
• Waterproof – Meets JIS7 standards; Submersible for 30 minutes in one meter deep water.
• Tri-Watch Monitors three (3) channels at once — Channel 16, and two (2) user selected channels.
• Digital Selective Calling (Class D DSC) allows sending a distress message at the touch of a button as well as specific station to station calls.

In order to use a VHF radio in Ireland you must have an operator’s license or a Certificate of Competency from the Department of Transport. This can take various forms:

• The most basic is “The Restricted Certificate in Radiotelephony (VHF only),” which is achieved by passing Module 1 of the SRC (Short Range Certificate) exam. This certificate entitles you to use a standard voice only ( not DSC, see below) VHF. This is what many boats are currently fitted with.
• Should your boat have a digital calling radio (DSC) and be capable of using the safety equipment under the new GMDSS, then you will be required to complete both Module 1 and Module 2 of the SRC, thereby acquiring the full Radio Operators Short Range Certificate.

While ComReg is is usually in charge of radio licencing, ships radio licensing is the responsibility of the Department of Transport. There is a list of course providers on the Department of Transport Web site.