RYA SRC / VHF Marine Radio Course

The RYA Marine Radio Short Range Certificate (SRC) is the minimum qualification required to operate marine VHF radio equipment on a UK flagged vessel. This includes both fixed and handheld equipment with and without Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and is obtained by successfully completing an SRC exam.

Candidates are required to complete an RYA SRC training course prior to taking the exam.  The RYA SRC training course may be taken in the classroom or online. There is no age limit for taking the SRC training course but exam candidates must be 16 years old on the day of the exam.

The SRC course can also be taken as an online training course.

SRC training course subjects include: 

Routine operation of marine VHF radio including Digital Selective Calling

Correct VHF channels (frequencies) to be used for each type of communication

Distress, emergency and medical assistance procedures

Ship to shore communication

Practical use of Marine VHF DSC training radios

Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)

Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB)

Search and Rescue Transponders (SART)

The Exam: The exam following the training course is a combination of a written theory test and practical assessment in the use of Marine VHF DSC radios. Candidates must be 16 years or older on the day of the exam.  Exam slots are chosen at time of booking, and are usually directly after the training course. 

Please note that there is an additional exam fee which is payable directly to the RYA, and this must be completed online prior to attending the exam.  To complete and print the form follow this link.