At a glance
For initial issue of a GMDSS radio operator certificate, you need to:
- Complete approved training
- Prepare your documents
- Apply to AMSA
Ready to apply? Complete Seafarer form 419 now
On this page:
- About this certificate
- Eligibility requirements
- How to get this certificate
- Keep your certificate valid
- Use an overseas GMDSS certificate
About this certificate
A GMDSS radio operator certificate allows you to perform radio communication duties on vessels fitted with GMDSS equipment.
It is a requirement (supporting certificate) for many STCW deck officer certificates.
With this certificate, you can:
- operate GMDSS radio equipment
- send and receive distress, urgency and safety communications
- maintain a radio watch as required under international regulations
- support vessel safety and emergency response.
Eligibility requirements
To be issued this certificate, you must:
- be at least 18 years old
- complete the training below.
You do not need a medical or sea service assessment for this certificate.
Do you already hold a GMDSS certificate from another country?
If your certificate was issued by a recognised country, you may be able to use it in Australia by applying for a GMDSS Certificate of Recognition instead of completing training.
Find out more about certificates of recognition
How to get this certificate
Follow these steps to get this certificate.
- (1) Complete an approved training course
You must complete an AMSA-approved course in GMDSS radio communication that meets the requirements of the STCW Code Section A-IV/2.
Your training will cover:
- operation of GMDSS equipment
- distress, urgency and safety communications
- search and rescue communications procedures
- maintaining a radio watch.
This training is usually called Transmit and receive information by the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).
Make sure your training provider is approved
You must complete this course with an AMSA-approved training provider.
We do not accept training completed with other providers or overseas.
Find an AMSA-approved training provider
- (2) Prepare your documents
When you apply, you need:
- proof of identity
- a passport-style photograph (if you live overseas)
- a copy of your prerequisite STCW certificate
- course completion certificate(s) showing the relevant STCW course codes (not transcripts, attendance records or statements of attainment).
Do not submit additional documents unless we ask for them.
Find out more about proof of identity and providing supporting documents.
- (3) Apply for your certificate
Once you have completed all the steps, you’re ready to apply.
Complete Seafarer form 419, then download and print it.
How you submit your application depends on where you live.
Keep your certificate valid
You must revalidate this certificate every 5 years to continue working.
Find out how to revalidate your certificate.
Apply early to avoid delays
You should apply to revalidate your STCW certificate in the 6 months before it expires.
Use an overseas GMDSS certificate
If you hold a GMDSS certificate issued by another country, you cannot transfer it to an Australian certificate.
If your certificate is issued by a recognised country, you may be able to apply for an AMSA-issued GMDSS certificate of recognition to use your certificate in Australia.
Use your overseas certificate in Australia (Certificate of Recognition)
Regulations and standards
- Marine Order 70 (Seafarer certification)
- Marine Order 71 (Masters and deck officers)
- STCW Code Section A-IV/2