dsc registration

[knock down 2]

i hope everyone is getting there boats waxed and ready to go for the new season, i have recently bought a dsc/vhf radio and was wandering were to get the radio registered? do i go through the coast gaurd or another place if anyone could help me with this i would be greatful.

thax

(mabe one day i'll be giving some advice insted of looking for it LOL)

[jazzrockskier]

If you want a DSC ID number that the USCG will have in their data base you must get the radio licensed through the FCC. The FCC assigns the 9 digit ID numbers. The Ships Station License is about $180 for 10 years & covers all transmitters you might put on your vessel, Radar, SSB etc. ( I did this since the License was up for renewal). The other alternative is an ID Number from BoatUS. This ID number will not be in the USCG data base. Which in my opinion defeats the entire purpose of DSC in an emergency. you can get all the licensing info at fcc.gov. PM me if you want help, I hold an FCC General Telephone License.

[Wild Life Management]

You're talking about getting a MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identities) number right?

I don't remember paying any money to get my MMSI. I also cannot recall what website I used, but hopefully this one will help you out.

http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/marcomms/...msi.htm#mobile

[KevinD]

From http://http://wireless.fcc.gov/servi...=ship_stations

"You do not need a license to operate a marine VHF radio, radar, or EPIRBs aboard voluntary ships operating domestically. The term "voluntary ships" refers to ships that are not required by law to carry a radio. Generally, this term applies to recreation or pleasure craft."


"If your vessel requires licensing by the FCC you will obtain an MMSI number during the application/licensing process when you file FCC Forms 159 and 605 with the FCC.
If your vessel does not require a license you may obtain an MMSI by contacting either BoatUS, Sea Tow Service International, Inc., Shine Micro, or United States Power Squadrons."

Hope this helps

[jazzrockskier]

about voluntary licensing, I used to live in Washington State and traveled in Canadian waters therefore a License is required. So if you plan to leave US waters you must obtain an FCC ships station License. I have been boating since the days when a Ships Station License was mandatory, so I continue to go that route. Starting with the Coast Guard website is a good plan. The fcc's site isn't the easiest to comprehend. Good Luck.

[fmoore]

http://www.boatus.com/mmsi/

[Avenger]

fmoore got it right. Boat/US is handling the DSC numbers. Don't leave port without one.