RYA VHF Radio Short Range Certificate

This VHF radio course will now take place over one and a half days or over one full day of training with the written and oral exam taking place directly following on from this in the evening. See course dates for info.

The Short Range Certificate is the qualification required by law if you operate a VHF radio fitted with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) on any British vessel voluntarily fitted with a radio.

It is an important piece of safety equipment on board and this course covers all aspects of using VHF including the most up-to-date changes of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System.

Course topics include:-

  • the basics of radio operation
  • the correct frequencies (channels) to be used
  • distress, emergency and medical assistance procedures
  • making ship to shore communication
  • Digital Selective Calling (DSC) using simulators
  • Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)
  • Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB)
  • Search and Rescue (SART)

Radio simulators are used to teach and examine the course.  The exam also includes a short written test.

Training time for the RYA Short Range Certificate Course must be a minimum of 10 hours which may include up to 3 hours of guided self-learning.

When you have booked your course you will be sent the accompanying SRC pack which includes the VHF Handbook G31 and exam report form. A list of topics that you must cover, using the VHF handbook, prior to attending the course will be included in your joining information.

Please be aware, if you hold the ‘old’ VHF licence (pre-1999) you need to upgrade your qualification if you purchase new equipment.

13th Jan 2024

02nd March 2024

1.5 Days Training & Practice days

Approx. 2 hours for exam at the end.

£120.00 payable to Ocean Discovery on this website for the training element.

£70 payable directly to the RYA via their website (see link below) for the exam.

N.B. You must now register and pay this RYA examination fee online to the RYA prior to attending your course. The RYA will then send you an exam report form with a barcode on it. you will need to print this out and bring it with you on your course. This will be completed by the assessor on the day of your actual exam.

RYA Exam Link click here

Included in your course fee:

RYA Training Handbook

In addition to the course fee of £120 payable to Ocean Discovery, there is an exam fee of £70 which is payable directly to the RYA. Link below:

RYA Exam Registration Link click here

Please note this course is non-residential. If you would like to arrange accommodation nearby, please see our information page for some suggestions.

Ability after course

This course will give you the ability to be able to operate the radio and know the procedures required to use the radio.

VHF radio set

Minimum entry standard:  no prior knowledge required.  Minimum age:  16 years old