RYA VHF Short Range Radio Operators Course (DSC) and Exam

A VHF radio is an important piece of safety equipment on board and it is vital to understand the correct procedures. The Short Range Certificate is the minimum qualification required by law to control the operation of VHF and VHF Digital Selective Calling (DSC) equipment on any British flagged vessel voluntarily fitted with a fixed or hand-held radio. On passing this course, not only will you be legally able to operate a radio on your boat, you will be able to supervise untrained users.

Using real marine VHF radios, the course covers the basics of VHF/DSC radio operation, language, frequencies, distress, urgency and safety alerts and procedures, plus legal rules and regulations. The DSC element of the radio falls within the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and you will be taught about other equipment which falls within this scheme such as Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and Search and Rescue Transponders (SARTs).

The course ends with a written theory exam and assessment in the practical use of marine VHF radios conducted by an external assessor. The £76 fee for this exam is in addition to the course fee and is payable directly to the RYA in advance of the course.

Prior to attending you will need to complete approximately three hours of self study. On confirmation of the course you will be issued with a pack including the RYA VHF Handbook and instructions on what areas you need to familiarise yourself with before the course.

Experience required: None

Minimum age: 16

Cost: £105 (£130 non-member). No payment will be taken until the course is confirmed to run. Plus the £76 test fee must be paid in advance direct to RYA.

Location: BSC Clubhouse

Book now: Book on to this course under 'Tickets' below and you will be invoiced when the course is confirmed to run.

Last updated 8:35pm on 11 November 2025