Description
A Marine Radio Operator’s Permit (called an MP by the FCC) is required to operate radiotelephone stations aboard certain vessels that sail in the Great Lakes of the United States, specifically Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario.
A Marine Radio Operator’s Permit is also required to operate radiotelephone stations aboard sea and ocean-going vessels of more than 300 gross tons and vessels which carry more than six passengers for hire in the open sea or any tidewater area of the United States.
A Marine Radio Operator’s Permit is also required to operate certain aviation radiotelephone stations and certain coast radiotelephone stations.
Qualifications to obtain a A Marine Radio Operator’s Permit
To qualify to become a Marine Radio Operator’s Permit holder, you must:
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- be a legal resident of (or otherwise eligible for employment in) the United States; and
- be able to receive and transmit spoken messages in English; and
- pass a written and/or telegraphy examination(s) as described below under Examinations.
Term of License
A Marine Radio Operator’s Permit is currently issued for the holder’s lifetime.
How to Obtain a A Marine Radio Operator’s Permit
Submit FCC Form 605 through electronic filing in ULS along with the appropriate Proof of Passing Certificates (for the requisite written examination element).
Many Commercial Operator License Examination Managers (COLEMs) file these documents for applicants who test with them. Ask your COLEM if it provides this service to its customers.
The Examination
To obtain an FCC Commercial Operator License, applicants must submit, to the Commission, proof of passing written Element 1- Basic radio law and operating practice with which every maritime radio operator should be familiar.
To pass Element 1, the basic radio law test, you must correctly answer at least 18 out of 24 questions.