Marine Radio Licence Course

Online Training
In-Person Assessment
All Fees Included

SROCP
Short Range

LROCP
Long Range

Done in just 4-6 hours!

Book Marine Radio Course

A person using a Marine Radio, after qualifying for it by completing the Marine Radio Licence Course

Marine Radio Licence Courses You Can Trust

Our training courses are highly rated by hundreds of satisfied customers:

We’re 5-Star Rated!

Read Reviews

Greg Mowbray

05:42 11 Oct 24

Fantastic course and instructor! Couldn’t fault any aspect of the Boat Licence course, from the practical on water session to the detailed theory session. Natalie did a fantastic job. Best training I have experienced!

Allan Young

05:20 29 Sep 24

Can’t recommend highly enough. So informative and helpful passing the exam, but more importantly giving confidence in understanding boating rules and regulations.

Chelsea Anne

08:03 12 Sep 24

Absolutely amazing, simply explains everything and anything you ask! Goes through everything thoroughly and makes sure you understand everything.

Jacky Wong

07:19 12 Sep 24

Very good and friendly

Leo Liu

00:19 08 Sep 24

I am writing to express my sincere appreciation and admiration for the outstanding performance of the coach in today's General Boating Course. In particular, I believe the coach named Steven (if I heard it correctly) did an exceptional job.During the on-board practice, Steven effectively broke the ice and enlivened the atmosphere. He managed to be humorous and engaging while still covering all the training contents. I must admit that these two hours were extremely enjoyable.In the subsequent courses and tests, Steven demonstrated a high degree of professionalism and patience. His expertise and calm demeanor made the learning process smooth and effective.I am truly impressed by Steven's abilities and dedication. His efforts have made this boating course a memorable and valuable experience.Thank you once again for having such an excellent coach on your team.

john Vu

06:08 28 Aug 24

Amazing experience! Our instructor Paul was thorough, patient and he really took the time to make sure everyone learnt what was required every step of the way. One of the nicest blokes you'll ever meet.Awesome Job ABC

faber mazo

05:08 26 Aug 24

Really good place to do your boat training, the teacher was so clear and helpful.100% recommend this place.

Sarah K

08:08 25 Aug 24

Highly recommend going with ABC boating for any boat/PWC training/licenses. Very thorough, professional, patient and our instructor Paul adapted to everyone’s skill level and needs whilst making learning fun, enjoyable and making the learning process easy and simple.

Andrew Fitzgerald

10:02 18 Aug 24

I did the general boat license course with ABC today, John our instructor was fantastic, very patient and continuously offered guidance throughout the day to make sure everybody understood the ins & outs. He offered up more information than you need to just pass the course and in doing so, makes sure you start out with a decent amount of skills & understanding of the water to make your first outings on a boat safe and enjoyable. 10/10, will recommend ABC to anyone looking to get their license. Thanks again John & ABC Sydney!

Salwa Benmaarouf

02:02 11 Aug 24

As a first-time boat driver, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Paul was absolutely amazing, he took the time to explain everything clearly and shared extra valuable insights beyond the standard guidebook. A big thank you to the entire team for making the booking process so smooth and efficient. I highly recommend these guys for anyone looking to get their boat licence!

Matthew Rudland

05:19 08 Aug 24

Fantastic company. Very knowledgeable and first class equipment. If you’re serious about getting your licence. These guys will get you there!

Arlo Thompson

10:44 02 Jul 24

Had a great time in the process of receiving my licence. Instructor was one of the nicest people I’ve met and his teaching was thorough. Highly recommend as anyone can pass the test with ABC’s methods and there was plenty of information not necessarily in the test study guide that is essential for boating.

Matt Disipio

05:31 30 Jun 24

Everything was clearly explained and lots of fun. Ibrahim was a fantastic teacher and was lots of help, would definitely recommend.

Nathaniel Steward

03:02 24 Jun 24

Attended a 1 day general boat licence course with ABC. They are a little expensive compared to other options but Ibraham was a great teacher and gave us lots of helpful ways to remember the maritime rules and signals. Highly recommend.

Bill Gable

06:53 15 Jun 24

The best way to get your boat license. So professional and knowledgeable teachers.

Leigh Lawton

19:50 20 May 24

Great course and fantastic instructor which went through all detail on the water and classroom to help me pass the test at the end of the day.

John Styles

05:34 19 May 24

Fantastic day with Ibrahim on the water and in the classroom, thoroughly knowledgeable and delivered the training in an easy to follow and enjoyable manner.The course was very well structured, flowed and was exceptionally well organised, a credit to Ibrahim and the entire team.I highly recommend them to anyone needing a boat licence or any other training they offer.

Barbara Rearden

05:27 19 May 24

Excellent way to learn what you need to safely enjoy boating in NSW instructor had so much knowledge and communicated to everyone in the class in a way we all understood. Would recommend this to anyone wanting to get a boat licence

Chris Gatto

05:24 04 May 24

Great fun today! Ibrahim was a great instructor!!

Matthew Reid

09:53 15 Apr 24

Absolutely a fantastic company to use for your licensing requirements. All the instructors were helpful, knowledgeable, and really took the time to make sure you learnt what was required. A really easy going team that make you feel comfortable so you can pass. Great work ABC.

Phil Nurse

08:55 14 Apr 24

We completed our theory and practical today with Ibrahim and it was fantastic. Ibraham was very knowledgeable and engaging and his style really helped me in learning all the theory aspects. His instructions on the boat were also very clear and I felt confident and safe throughout. Thank you for a great experience, Ibrahim!

Darren Parker

07:10 08 Jan 24

Highly recommended - excellent way to spend a day on the water and in the classroom learning. Instructors provided quality practical advice all day. Hands on experience and everything you need to know. Great delivery style - endless tips - non-judgemental - professional approach.

Andrei Loginovskiy

01:31 29 Oct 23

Amazing experience!Our coach Ibrahim was a rock star: he delivered one of the most engaging and enjoyable learning I ever had experienced, lots of practical advices, very attentive and just a great person.You learn theory to pass tests, they share heaps of practical knowledge. Just practice alone worth the money spent.I will for sure recommend to anyone and has recommended to my friends already.

Matthew Lienert

04:49 20 Oct 23

Fantastic day when I went to ABC Australian Boating College, it was so much fun we went straight out onto the boat took turns with control of the boat and instructions and explanation was clear and concise. I am enthusiastic to getting my boat with further training and settling in on my own vessel, (extra charge of course! Hehe) You will love every minute of it receiving so much freedom enjoyment with peace and tranquillity on the water.. Adam is really passionate and helpful about anything Boating, he is a wealth of knowledge after obviously many years he has had on the water. My rating for him is AAA5 Stars!Book your boat license in with him today. It really is like ABC very easy to learn from him on the water one off the water.

Who is the Marine Radio Licence Course for?

The Marine Radio Licence is a must for anyone who owns a Boat fitted with a Radio (VHF, MF, or HF) – under the Radiocommunications Act of 1992 it’s a legal requirement for operation!

It’s not just for recreational use either, counting towards commercial qualifications like Coxswain/Master 24.

ABC Sydney can get you a Marine Radio Licence fast, whether you need to get a Short Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency (SROCP), or a Long Range Operator Certificate of Proficiency (LROCP).

It’s a great option to pursue after completing your General Boat Licence Course with us, and will ensure that you can safely operate the Radio in case of an emergency.

The Marine Radio Certificates of Proficiency never expire or need renewal, so they’re yours for life, and are recognised internationally.

Marine Radio Certificate Comparison

SROCP

LROCP

27MHz Radio

Yes

VHF Radio

Yes

Inland / Enclosed Waters

Yes

MF / HF Radio

Yes

Offshore / Open Waters

Yes

Ocean Use

Yes

Complete the SROCP or LROCP Certificate in just 4 steps!

Online Radio Course
At Your Own Pace

Person completing the at-home Marine Radio Licence E-Learning on their personal laptop computer

Learn Marine Radio skills with e-learning
Access the training from your own devices
Summary quizzes and revision included

Multiple-Choice
Marine Radio Test

Person completing the multiple choice test on a desktop computer

Sit the Marine Radio Test with ABC in person
Comfortable location in Artarmon, Sydney
Done on a computer, laptop, or tablet

Complete Practical Assessment

Two people participating in the Marine Radio Practical Scenario

Do the Marine Radio Practical scenario
Set correct channels and follow procedures
Make & receive marine broadcasts

Get your Marine
Radio Licence

Person holding their Short or Long Range Certificate, standing on a wharf

Get your Marine Radio Licence Certificate
We’ll lodge it for you with no extra fees
Receive the SROCP or LROCP in email or post

Know someone chartering a boat overseas?
Give the gift of a Marine Radio Licence Course!

Buy a Gift Voucher

Online Radio Course At Your Own Pace

How do I study for the Marine Radio Licence?

The best way to study for the SROCP or LROCP is through the Online Marine Radio Course.

You’ll learn how to select a channel or frequency, make a broadcast, emergency situations, and much more!

We offer this course with Above & Beyond Boating, and you will receive a login for the course within 48 hours.

This course covers all the content for your selected type, and guides you through all the training you need to be ready for the examination.

When you’ve finished the course and are feeling confident, get in touch with us to book your test.

Is the Marine Radio Licence Exam hard?

Sitting the multiple choice exam is very straightforward, and we find that all students are highly prepared once the online training is completed. Each course has a test:

SROCP Exam

The SROCP test consists of 25 questions, with a 30 minute time limit and a pass mark of 18/25.

LROCP Exam

For those doing LROCP questions are doubled to 50, twice the time of 60 minutes, and pass mark of 35/50.

It’s not unusual to complete the exams with plenty of time remaining in the session.

Multiple-Choice Marine Radio Test

Complete the Practical Radio Assessment

What happens in the Marine Radio Licence Practical?

This is where you put your newly-learned radio knowledge to use!

Both the SROCP and LROCP begin with a role-play scenario involving these topics on a simulated radio:

Operate a Marine Radio Unit

Switch it on and select a channel/frequency

Use Digital Selective Calling (DSC)

Show you can control the Radio properly

Demonstrate Typical Broadcasts, Mayday Calls

With a focus on time-sensitive emergencies

Finishing the Marine Radio Licence

Now you’ve completed all the training and assessments, you’re done!

We’ll send your application into the Office of Maritime Communications for you, with no additional fees due.

How long does processing take?

Processing takes an average of 3 weeks for the OMC to approve a SROCP or LROCP, though this can stretch out to 4 weeks during peak periods.

Once your assessment is verified and processed it’ll be posted to your address, and you can use it for work or play! It never expires, all that’s left is to enjoy!

Get Your Marine Radio Licence

Marine Radio Licences
as easy as A, B, C!

Book Course

Frequently Asked Questions

SROCP – $375

Short Range Operators Certificate of Proficiency

All-Inclusive Fee

LROCP – $389

Long Range Operators Certificate of Proficiency

All-Inclusive Fee

Is there any pre-requisite knowledge?

There is no pre-requisite knowledge for the Marine Radio Licence Course, and the course is designed so that beginners can successfully complete the training.

What if I have a hard time with reading or learning?

If you have trouble with Learning, Literature and Numeracy, please let us know before your course so we can best plan to help you.

We are happy to discuss and always strive to support everyone where possible.

Which language is used during the Course? Can it be translated?

All Course material is provided in English, and all training content is also delivered in English.

There is no opportunity to have a translated version, or to bring an interpreter with you to the assessment.

Please get in touch with us if you’d like to know more about your options for other languages.

What Equipment do I need for the E-Learning?

You’ll need to have your own device to access the E-Learning, we recommend a Desktop PC, a Laptop, or a Digital Tablet.

Do I need to own a marine radio?

You don’t need to own a radio first to complete the training, and you won’t be required to have any previous experience in using one.

What is a MMSI Number?

Standing for Maritime Mobile Service Identity, the MMSI Number is a 9-digit code that you can enter into your Marine Radio Unit.

It is used to identify you any time you use the radio, whether it’s a routine check in or an emergency call.

You may also have an EPIRB (emergency position-indicating radio beacon) that requires your MMSI Number to properly activate.

You can head to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority website to read more about the MMSI.

What are the requirements for an MMSI Number?

To apply for an MMSI you must have:

A Vessel registered in Australia (except the NT)
A SROCP or LROCP
Name, Address, Phone Number of Registered Vessel Owner
Emergency contact details
Vessel details such as make and model
Marine Radio Unit details, and type such as VHF, MF, or HF

How do I apply for the MMSI?

Once you have filled out the requirements, you’ll need to fill out Australian Maritime Mobile Service Identity Application Form 89 with AMSA, and email it to them as detailed on their site.

They’ll process it and issue it to you with no charge.

What is the minimum age for the course?

You must be 16 years or older to complete the training and apply for the Marine Radio Licence.

What is a VHF Radio?

A VHF Marine Radio uses Very High Frequency transmission to broadcast voice for communication between a vessel and a transceiver, which could be another boat, a handheld VHF receiver, or a station on land.

They’ve got a range of 20 nautical miles, which is plenty to cover most recreational boating activities – the audio quality is great and VHF normally has a solid connection.

VHF Radio uses ‘Channels’ that allow simple broadcast frequencies to be used in Simplex (one-way) or Duplex (two-way) communication.

While the VHF Radio itself does not need to be licenced or registered with the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), the Operator of the Radio requires a Certificate of Proficiency.

What is a MF/HF Radio?

Medium Frequency (MF) or High Frequency (HF) both work very differently to a shorter-range VHF radio.

Instead of sending their signal more-or-less directly toward the receiver, a MF/HF Radio aims the transmission slightly skywards, and bounces it off the Earth’s Ionosphere to return back to land – usually over the horizon.

These longer range radios have up to 200 nautical miles of range, which is essential for international travel or chartering a vessel far from shore.

Unlike the easy-to-use channels of VHF, MF/HF Radio requires the Operator to select the appropriate wavelength of transmission for the distance of the receiver.

Modern MF/HF Radios also support VHF broadcast, so the Long-Range LROCP covers all these different uses.

All MF/HF radios must be licenced or registered with the ACMA, which will also give it a unique call sign identifier.

What is a 27MHz Radio?

27MHz Radios have fallen out of fashion as they have many limitations compared to the other two options.

They use a large wavelength to broadcast a signal, which is easily blocked by buildings or hills, and while they have 10-15 nautical miles of range this must be in a direct line.

This can be further degraded by weather, which also makes it sound crackly.

We don’t recommend this type of radio any more – look to VHF or above.