Online Marine Radio Course & Licence
All-inclusive VHF package cost just $249
Get legally certified and communicate with confidence on the water. This all-inclusive VHF radio package gives you everything you need to get your marine radio licence—fully online and self-paced.
VHF Course Online VHF Exam Official VHF Licence (SROCP) Meets MMSI application requirements No extra costs – just $160 to us, $89 licence fee to OMC
Learn at your own pace, then sit the online exam (available twice monthly). It’s the easiest, most affordable way to get certified and stay safe on the water.
HF/MF Long Range Package – Only $269
Includes course, exam, and licence for operators needing long-range (LROCP) certification.
100% Online. Easy. Fully Accredited.
Questions? Call Tim on 0412 878 739 or email tim@bluewatersail.com.au
““Tim was a great instructor – calm, very knowledgeable and patient. The SROCP exam was a piece of cake by the time we got to it because of the way the session was run, so I strongly recommend seeing Tim at Blue Water for any courses or training!” – Jono Lane (Google Review)
VHF (Short Range) Marine Radio Course
Approx. 5 hours total | 9 concise lessons (30–40 mins each)
Learn how to operate a marine VHF radio legally and safely. This self-paced, online course is designed to prepare you for the Short Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency (SROCP).
What You’ll Learn:
Parts and operation of a VHF marine radio
How to issue a distress call and communicate in emergencies
Routine communication with other vessels and coast stations
Use of Digital Selective Calling (DSC)
Overview of other maritime safety and distress systems
Maintenance and basic troubleshooting of radio and power supply
This course is essential for anyone planning to skipper a boat or charter a yacht—and it’s the fastest way to meet your legal marine radio licence requirements.
MF/HF (Long Range) Marine Radio Course
Approx. 6 hours total | 10 lessons (30–40 mins each)
This self-paced online course prepares you for the Long Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency (LROCP)—the legal requirement for operating MF/HF marine radios in Australian waters and beyond.
Includes Everything in the VHF Course, Plus:
Operation and components of MF/HF marine radios
Understanding MF/HF bands and calling/emergency frequencies
How radio waves travel over long distances
Choosing the best frequency based on ionospheric conditions
Practical use of MF/HF radios for long-range communication and emergencies
Ideal for offshore cruisers, passage-makers, and anyone needing reliable long-range communication.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
1. The Long Range (LROCP) includes the Short Range (SROCP). You do not need to do both. For obtaining an MMSI and for most people the VHF (Short Range) is all you need.
2. You must have high speed internet capable of video conferencing. You must have access to a tablet, laptop or computer with a camera and microphone. You will need basic computer skills.
3. If you are unable to attend the exam for any reason then there is a resit fee of $55. If you fail the exam you will also need to pay OMC a further exam fee of $89.
Frequently Asked Questions – Marine Radio Courses
Do I need a marine radio licence to operate a VHF radio in Australia?
Yes. Just like driving a car, it’s illegal to operate a VHF marine radio without a licence. While you can physically use the radio, doing so without a licence is not legal—and it’s definitely not smart. The course ensures you understand proper procedures, especially in emergencies.
Do individual marine radios need to be licensed?
No. VHF radios are now covered by a class licence, so you don’t need a separate ship station licence or call sign. However, the operator must hold at least a Short Range Certificate of Proficiency (SROCP).
What is an MMSI and do I need one?
An MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) is a unique 9-digit number programmed into your VHF, HF, or AIS unit. It identifies you and your vessel in emergencies and enables you to make automated DSC distress calls with your position and ID.
To get an MMSI from AMSA (Australian Maritime Safety Authority), you must hold a marine radio operator qualification.
You are required to have an MMSI if your vessel has:
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A fixed VHF radio with DSC
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A handheld VHF with DSC
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An HF radio with DSC
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An AIS (Automatic Identification System)
Does the marine radio licence expire?
No. Marine radio licences issued by the OMC do not expire and never need renewing.
How is the practical exam conducted online?
We assess five practical competencies during your online session:
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Powering on the unit, changing channels, adjusting volume and squelch
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Making a DSC Distress call
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Making a Mayday voice call
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Logging on with Volunteer Marine Rescue (VMR)
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Setting a channel for dual watch
Simulated scenarios are used for the Mayday and log-on calls. For the others, you’ll describe how you’d perform the actions.
What is the range of a VHF radio?
VHF signals operate on line of sight, typically reaching 10–15 nautical miles. Terrain, antenna height, and weather can affect range.
Why use a marine radio if I have a mobile phone?
Mobile phones are great if you’re in range—but VHF offers several advantages:
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Public broadcast: Other vessels nearby can respond faster than emergency services.
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Repeaters can extend range beyond mobile coverage.
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DSC alerts on VHF radios can include your GPS location.
Should I get a GPS-enabled VHF radio?
Yes. A GPS connection means that DSC distress calls will automatically include your position—critical for fast response in an emergency.
What is the OMC?
The Office of Maritime Communications is the only body in Australia authorised to issue marine radio qualifications. It is part of the Australian Maritime College, Australia’s national maritime training institute.
Does an MF/HF radio need to be licensed?
Yes. Unlike VHF radios, MF/HF radios require apparatus licensing from the ACMA, and the operator must hold a Long Range Certificate of Proficiency (LROCP).** Once licensed, you’ll be issued a call sign.
How long does it take to receive my marine radio licence?
The OMC processes applications within 15 working days from receiving your exam results and paperwork. Allow up to 4 weeks total, including postage.