Norwegian Maritime Authority to issue radio certificates for seafarers from 1 January 2026
Starting 1 January 2026, the Norwegian Maritime Authority (NMA) will take over the issuance of radio certificates for seafarers, including endorsements.
This applies to the following certificates:
- SRC (Short Range Certificate)
- LRC (Long Range Certificate)
- ROC (Restricted Operator’s Certificate)
- GOC (General Operator Certificate)
From this date, all applications for new certificates, renewals and endorsements (ROC and GOC) must be submitted to the Norwegian Maritime Authority.
As with other personal certificates, only electronic certificates will be issued. These can be verified digitally and will replace plactic cards.
Expect longer processing times during the transition
Due to the tranfer from Telenor Kystradio to the Norwegian Maritime Authority, processing times may be longer during a transitional period.
This is particularly relevant in December 2025 and the first weeks of January 2026, when new systems and routines are introduced and the systems will have to handle the actual transition.
We encourage anyone with radio certificates expiring in 2025 to apply for renewal or first-time issuance as early as possible, preferably during November.
Those with certificates expiring in 2026 are advised to wait until after the transfer and submit their application to the NMA in the new year.
Previous certificates will be available digitally
During 2025, radio certificates issued by Telenor Kystradio will also become visible on "My Page for Seafarers" and in the "NMA Seafarer" app. These will be available in electronic format and can be used as valid documentation on board instead of plastic cards.