FCC Licenses for International Cruising

RobMcClain

Over the years we have had many discussions on this forum regarding US requirements governing VHF use when crossing into Canadian waters. Mary and I have never made this crossing but are planning to do so this summer - so we have never had the 2 licenses required (nor an FCC issued MMSI that could be used internationally).

After much thinking and research I decided we should be safe and legal so yesterday afternoon, following guidance in the Waggoner Cruising Guide, I accessed the FCC website and its Universal Licensing System to apply for a Restricted Radio Operator Permit and a Ship Station License (including a new official MMSI). After logging into the site I applied for each license online and then paid using plastic. Twice I ran into a small glitch with my understanding so I called the help number and within ~1 minute I was talking to a real person. In both cases my questions were quickly and clearly answered and I was back at work completing the necessary electronic forms. When I opened my E-mail this morning I found an official copy of each license! I printed each and am now ready to cross the border with no concerns about using my VHF. From starting the application process to delivery of each license took less than 24 hours!

The purpose of my post is simply to let folks know how quick and simple it is to apply for and receive the necessary licenses for international cruising - if you are so inclined. The 2 licenses are pricey ($290 in total), but I'm one of those guys who wants to be safe and legal, with no worries if asked for something. I do not wish to open any discussion about the pros/cons of these requirements. I was very pleased by the FCC service.

Rob

Marco Flamingo · Posted: Fri Mar 24, 2017 12:28 pm Post subject:

I went through the same process without the computer glitches. I printed out the licence on card stock for my log book and another copy to laminate for my wallet. Plus, I kept the Email copy in my downloads. $290 for a "number" that I may not need or use is pricey. I could help justify it as being "safety equipment," but that amount of $$ could buy a really huge fire extinguisher.

Mark

hardee · Posted: Fri Mar 24, 2017 2:55 pm Post subject:

Rob, Like you, I decided to have the right paperwork "In case". I did my application through Roger's Marine Electronics in Portland, and it was similarly easy. Yeah, the fee is a bit, but consider it an investment in your peace of mind along with an extra level of safety.

Good on ya'

Harvey
SleepyC Moon

starcrafttom · Posted: Sat Mar 25, 2017 4:54 pm Post subject:

Just my opinion- waste of money for a piece of paper that no one is ever asked me for. I do not nor will I ( or most boaters) ever get one.

But glad to hear it was easy.

thataway · Posted: Sat Mar 25, 2017 6:55 pm Post subject:

If you are gong to use an AIS transmitter, or Marine SSB, I would say that registration is essential. Only way to get the international MMSI number and a ship's radios station call sign. We all are required to have the restricted Radio Operators's license (free--lifetime).

Some of those fees are to register with the FCC--I do so with my Ham Call sign, thus use that same FCC number for any marine license... Like most on our C Dory we have never hand the FCC call sign. For the larger boats--definately we have had it.

Foggy · Posted: Sat Mar 25, 2017 7:43 pm Post subject:

TJE may have it right. I've done it by the book and never needed any of it.

Regarding getting a ship's license, MMSI #, station license, etc you will get an
FRN# (Federal Registration Number) to retain for all future correspondence.
I've used this FRN more than any of the other numbers I've applied for in any
contact with the FCC about anything.

In it all, you automatically get a ship's radio station call sign when you've
completed your filing. I never needed or used this either.

Best to comply with the law, no doubt. Always critique, question and be skeptical
of everything nonsensical, foolish or unnecessary and voice your thoughts
appropriately to the proper authority.

Aye.

RichardM · Posted: Sat Mar 25, 2017 9:09 pm Post subject:

Whether you ever go to Canada or not, it's past time to have a VHF with DSC (digital selective calling) and an MMSI number for your boat. This safety feature has been available for about 10 years now. It's included on low priced VHFs, even handhelds. If your radio is too old or too simple to have it, get with the program. It will even let you set up simple ways to call your fishing or cruising friends directly and privately.

The MMSI is a "phone number" for your boat's VHF. In case of emergency you just hit a red button on the radio and it will automatically send a distress call including your boat's name and description -- and your location if you've hooked the radio to your GPS or plotter -- to the Coast Guard. You can probably get your MMSI free. US Power Squadrons offers an easy free MMSI signup, and Boat US will also handle it (I think free, but not certain). You do it on the web.

Incidentally the MMSI has nothing to do with going to Canada. It's all about your not dying, not about your travel plans.

Marco Flamingo · Posted: Sun Mar 26, 2017 1:02 pm Post subject:

Mentioning the MMSI reminds me of three things I want to do at Friday Harbor this year (assuming that I get there). First, actually using the MMSI with other C-Brats and even trying the C-Brats MMSI. Second, get my AIS working and if I can't, ask some C-Brats to help me trouble shoot. Third, have a C-Brat with radar check to see if the Limpet even shows up on a screen.

Drinking coffee and yakking on the dock is all fine, but I've got projects.

Mark

hardee · Posted: Sun Mar 26, 2017 3:46 pm Post subject:

Bob said:

starcrafttom · Posted: Sun Mar 26, 2017 5:03 pm Post subject:

If you dont have a mmsi# and you hit the little red button what happens? Your location goes out to everyone including coast guard and they come get you. Even in Canada.

That said, having the boat type, name and size going out with your location makes the job easier, I just dont want anyone getting the idea that your unit wont work unless you register.

thataway · Posted: Sun Mar 26, 2017 7:18 pm Post subject:

Pat Anderson · Posted: Sun Mar 26, 2017 9:11 pm Post subject:

hardee · Posted: Sun Mar 26, 2017 10:45 pm Post subject:

thataway · Posted: Sun Mar 26, 2017 10:49 pm Post subject:

To check on my statement that DSC will not work, unless the MMSI (and GPS is connected or the radio has built in GPS)--I checked, the manuals of the 2 fixed and one hand held radios on my boat which have DSC. The manuals clearly state that DSC will not work unless the MMSI (and GPS connected) are programed into the radio. One many states that an error message will appear on the screen--but no transmission.

Here is a warning from the Wagoneer cruising guide:

Saxe Point · Posted: Mon Mar 27, 2017 12:28 am Post subject:

I read some time ago that statistic about how few VHF radio owners take advantage of the MMSI and GPS location features of DSC radios (and all VHF radios sold since about a decade or so ago are DSC equipped by law). I find it truly baffling that so many are not taking advantage of a safety feature that is so easy and so valuable - I would argue invaluable.

In emergencies time is always of the essence and panic can make routine tasks much tougher or impossible to complete. Pushing one button to send out an emergency broadcast of your identity and GPS coordinates to all VHF receivers within range could make all the difference.