MMSI NUMBER

thataway · Posted: Tue Mar 26, 2013 7:56 pm Post subject:

It is very clear: " The MMSI number is assigned to the vessel, not the radio. All radios, whether fixed installations or handheld and no matter how many, permanently associated with the same vessel should all use the same MMSI number." But when the number is updated the new owner, the contacts, and EPRIP data etc needs to also be updated with FCC or Boat US.

Many folks don't do that--and it can lead to confusion or even could delay response.

hardee · Posted: Sat Apr 06, 2013 10:21 pm Post subject:

I seem to remember paying a registration fee of some type when applying for my MMSI number through the FCC. It may have been for the station license, not the MMSI, but was required if filed with the FCC. I went the FCC route because their MMSI numbers are registered internationally, whereas, at the time at least, if the numbers were assigned via BoatUS, they were not traceable across the border into Canada. Not sure if that has changed in the last 2 years. Never did make sense that BoatUS could issue the number and it not be filed with the FCC.

Harvey
SleepyC Moon

Bill K · Posted: Sun Apr 07, 2013 1:18 am Post subject:

I just went to the Boat US site and copied this and you are correct and I had forgotten that.

"DSC-equipped VHF radios must have an MMSI number to function. That number must be registered in a database that is relayed to the Coast Guard for use in Search and Rescue. BoatUS has been authorized by both the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the U.S. Coast Guard to assign MMSI numbers only to vessels that meet the following criteria:

Used for recreation only
Not required by law to carry a radio
Do not make international voyages or communications

If your vessel is required to carry a radio onboard (“Compulsory Equipped”), or if you plan to visit or communicate in a foreign port including Canada, Mexico, Bahamas, and the British Virgin Islands, DO NOT proceed with this application. You are legally required to obtain a Ship Station License from the FCC. They will issue an appropriate MMSI with the License. Additionally, when traveling to foreign ports, you are required to have a Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit holder aboard."