Some near coastal certificates of competency require a marine radio operator certificate.

Depending on the certificate of competency you apply for, you may need a:

• Short Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency (SROCP)
• Long Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency (LROCP)

Certificates that need a radio operator certificate

You must hold the right radio certificate before you apply for your certificate of competency. Use this table to check which certificate you might need.

How to get a radio operator certificate

Apply with the Office of Maritime Communications at the Australian Maritime College. The Office manages marine radio examinations and certification services in Australia.  

You will need to either:  

• sit an exam
• provide an official certificate of completion issued by a registered training organisation (RTO).

The Office can also issue you with a replacement if you have lost or damaged your radio certificate.

Equivalent certificates

You may be able to meet this requirement using an equivalent qualification. We accept these certificates as equivalent.

You can also use your current AMSA- issued Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) certificate as an equivalent for either the SROCP or LROCP.

Using an overseas certificate

If you hold an overseas GMDSS, you need to apply for an AMSA Certificate of Recognition.

This will enable you to operate a marine radio in Australia.  

Once you receive your GMDSS Certificate of recognition from AMSA, you can use this in your near coastal Certificate of competency application.  

We do not accept any overseas issued radio certificates or licences.