Change to existing requirements: Simplified SMS requirements for smaller, less complex DCVs.
Applies to: Eligible Class 2, 3 and 4 vessels. Check if your vessel is eligible.
Effective from: 1 June 2025.
How to build your simplified SMS
Download a simplified SMS toolkit for step-by-step instructions on how to build your simplified SMS.
The steps you'll need to follow depend on your vessel's class.
Class 2 and 3 vessels
Class 4 vessels
Are you a solo operator?
Solo vessel operators face more risks because they work alone. Use our solo operator checklist to make sure you're managing these risks.
Q & A
- Do I need to create a new SMS, or can I continue to use my SMS app?
- The examples you’re showing look very simple. Can my SMS look like this?
- I appreciate the SMS but who is to pay for this if not computer literate?
Help us improve SMS guidance
We want to make this guidance clear and easy to use, and we need your feedback to find the best ways to improve it. Tell us what you think.