How Do I Obtain a Marine Radio Operator Permit?

Marine radios provide instant and reliable communication on the water. They’re helpful for navigation and essential for emergencies. That’s why they’re required for certain types of vessels.

However, having a radio onboard isn’t enough — you need to know how to use it.

Many boaters need a Marine Radio Operator Permit (MP) to demonstrate mastery and meet regulatory requirements. Find out how to earn yours here.

Do You Need a Marine Radio Operator Permit?

The FCC only requires an MP for a few vessels and situations. Otherwise, this type of permit is optional.

You’ll need an MP for:

• Operating a vessel more than 20 meters in length or more than 300 gross tons
• Operating a towing vessel eight meters or longer
• Carrying more than six paying passengers in the open sea or any tidewater area in the U.S.
• Using certain aviation radiotelephone stations or coast radiotelephone stations
• Going to ports in other countries

Most boaters know whether they need a Marine Radio Operator Permit because of their work’s nature. Sometimes, the Coast Guard will notify you that an MP is required.

Requirements for a Marine Radio Operator Permit

Requirements for the MP aren’t as strict as captain’s license requirements. To qualify, you must:

• Be a legal resident of (or otherwise eligible for employment in) the United States
• Be able to receive and transmit spoken messages in English
• Pass the FCC’s written Element 1 exam

The written exam covers the basic radio laws and operating practices every maritime radio operator should know. To earn a passing grade, you must correctly answer at least 18 out of 24 questions. The time limit is two hours, and you can’t access resources or notes during the test.

How to Get Your Permit

You can pass the Element 1 exam by trying to memorize the test’s question pool. But if you want to truly understand the material, taking an FCC-approved course is the way to go. 

Mariners Learning System offers a thorough permit course that includes an attempt at the Element 1 online exam. You’ll get access to the materials you need for 12 months, which you can study at your own pace. 

When you’re ready to take the exam — any day, any time, any place — make sure you have a laptop or desktop computer with a working webcam and microphone and a strong Wi-Fi connection. You’ll also need a photo ID handy. The online testing process is simple, and you’ll have your results within three to five business days.

Once you’ve passed your final exam, you’ll get an email with two forms to complete and return to our FCC department. Mariners will submit them to the FCC on your behalf.

Here are the forms:

• Form 605
• Schedule E

After you get FCC approval, the final step is to pay the issuance fee — which is usually about $35 — and print your license through the FCC’s portal.

Once you get your license, it’s yours for life! You’ll never have to keep up with renewal schedules or retake the exam.

Earn Your Marine Radio Operator Permit With Mariners

Are you ready to start earning your Marine Radio Operator Permit? Mariners is here to help you every step of the way. To learn more about our FCC licensing course and exam, contact us today.