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FCC Licensing Information
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FCC Licensing Information
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CobraMarine VHF radios comply with the FCC (Federal Communication Commission)
requirements that regulate the Maritime Radio Service.
This CobraMarine radio incorporates a VHF FM transceiver designed for use in
the frequency range of 156.025 to 163.275 MHz. It requires 13.8 volts DC and
has a switchable RF output power of one (1) or 25 watts.
The radio is capable of Class-D DSC (Digital Selective Calling) operation.
The radio operates on all currently allocated marine channels and is switchable for
use according to U.S.A., International, or Canadian regulations. It features instant
access to emergency Channel 16 and calling Channel 9 as well as NOAA (National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) All Hazards Radio with Alert that can be
accessed by pressing one key.
Station License
An FCC ship station license is no longer required for any vessel traveling in U.S.A.
waters which uses a VHF marine radio, RADAR, or EPIRB (Emergency Position
Indicating Radio Beacon), and which is not required to carry radio equipment.
However, any vessel required to carry a marine radio on an international voyage,
carrying a HF single side band radiotelephone, or carrying a marine satellite
terminal must obtain a station license.
FCC license forms and applications for ship and land stations can be downloaded
through the Internet at www.fcc.gov/formpage.html. Forms can also be obtained by
calling the FCC at 888-225-5322.
International Station License
If your vessel will be entering the sovereign waters of a country other than the
U.S.A. or Canada, you should contact that country’s communications regulatory
authority for licensing information.
Radio Call Sign
Currently, the FCC does not require recreational boaters to have a license. The United
States Coast Guard recommends that the boat’s registration number and state of registry
(e.g., IL 1234 AB) be used as a call sign and be clearly visible on the vessel.
Canadian Ship Station License
You need a Radio Operator’s Certificate if your vessel is operated in Canadian waters.
Radio Operator training and certification is available from the Canadian Power
Squadron. Visit their website (http://www.cps-ecp.ca/english/newradiocard.html),
contact the nearest field office or write: Industry of Canada, Radio Regulatory
Branch, Attn: DOSP, 300 Slater Street, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0C8.
VHF Marine Radio Protocols
