RYA Short Range Certificate (SRC)
Essential Marine Radio Skills and Certification
This course is designed for anyone who owns, operates, or intends to use a fixed or handheld marine VHF radio. Clear and reliable communication at sea is vital for safety and navigation, and understanding how to properly use VHF equipment is a legal requirement in most countries.
The RYA Short Range Certificate (SRC) is the mandatory qualification needed to operate both fixed and handheld VHF radios equipped with Digital Selective Calling (DSC). The RYA SRC certificate ensures you are competent in using international marine channels for routine communication, safety alerts, and distress calls.
Course Structure and Delivery Options
Theory
Delivered online and self-paced via the RYA Interactive platform or as face-to-face training (1 day) in our classrooms in Athens, this first module takes approximately 8 –10 hours to complete.
Topics covered include:
- Basics of radio operation and radio frequencies
- Distress, urgency, safety, and medical assistance procedures
- Making ship-to-shore telephone calls
- Digital Selective Calling (DSC) and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)
Practical Session and Exam
- Conducted in-person in our classrooms in Athens
- During this session, you’ll apply theoretical knowledge using live VHF/DSC radio equipment under supervision.
- The course concludes with a short exam by an RYA Assessor—comprising both a written theory test and a practical radio assessment
- On passing both elements, you will be awarded the RYA GMDSS SRC Certificate, valid internationally in GMDSS A1 sea areas
