What you need – VHF in 1-2-3

Here is what you need in order to use a VHF radio and Norges Maritime Nødnett (the Norwegian Maritime Emergency Network).

A maritime VHF radio is designed for use at sea and works very differently from a mobile phone. The most important difference is that, on VHF, everyone in your vicinity with a VHF radio will hear what you are transmitting. The purpose of this is, of course, that in an emergency you can receive assistance from the vessel closest to you – even if you cannot see it or do not know know it is there.

To make it easier to understand what you need to use a VHF radio and to have one on board, we have created a simple checklist.

1: Take the SRC certificate

Find course providers

Book an exam

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There are several ways to obtain the SRC (Short Range Certificate) – choose the option that suits you best.

You may take the certificate as a private candidate or through one of the many approved course providers. Several providers offer both classrom-based and online course, giving you full flexibility in how you prefer to learn.

As a private candidate, you are free to prepare in any way you choose – by:

attending a classroom course,
completing an online course,
or studying independently.

Regardless of which path you choose, you must complete an approved exam with the Norwegian Maritime Authority in order to have the certificate issued.

2: Purchase a VHF licence (subscription)

Purchase a licence

When you hold a licence, you are assigned a dedicated call sign and an MMSI number. The MMSI number must be programmed into your VHF radio (with DSC – Digital Selective Calling) for the distress button (DISTRESS) to function correctly.

The licence is renewed automatically and runs from year to year until it is cancelled.

The Norwegian Maritime Authority does not issue licences for land-based use. These are issued by the Norwegian Communications Authority (Nkom).

3: Get a VHF radio

You can purchase a VHF radio from retailers that sell VHF radio equipment. We strongly recommend choosing a VHF radio with DSC.

Many people wonder whether they should buy a fixed radio or a hand-held «walkie-talkie» type.