operate marine VHF radio equipment on a UK flagged vessel. It is obtained by successfully completing an SRC exam conducted at an RYA Recognised Training Centre.

SRC exams consist of a written theory exam and assessment in the practical use of marine VHF radios, with the exam fee payable to the RYA. See the section on the exam fee for more details.

Eligibility for the Examination

To be eligible for the exam, on the day of the exam all candidates must:

1. be 16 years old or older, and
2. present one of the following eligibility documents:

– evidence of completing an RYA SRC training course through an RYA Recognised Training Centre*, or
– an RYA Restricted VHF certificate, or
– a suitable aviation radio operator’s certificate.

*The RYA SRC course may be taken in the classroom or online. Find out more about the VHF/SRC course here.

Arranging an exam

Our next exam date will be shown on your login email that will be sent to you when purchasing a VHF/SRC Online course.

Training Radios, Paperwork, etc.

In addition, the RYA charge £76 for the exam which covers the cost of the examiner and the administration of processing and issuing your certificate.

Payment of the Sailtrain fee will act as you request to book an Exam place and can be made by clicking the “Add to Basket” button above. When you book your place we will send you your Joining instructions and a link to the RYA for payment of their fee.

1. Online payment by debit or credit card

The card payment does not need to be in your name. When completing the checking out process just click the box “BOOKING ON BEHALF OF SOMEONE ELSE?” and provide your details.