Did you know that U.S. boaters, as well as Canadian boaters, are required to have a VHF Radio Operator’s License to legally operate a VHF marine radio in Canadian waters?

In Canadian Waters. U.S. boaters are to have a “Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit” (RR) issued by the FCC (Federal Communications Commission), and Canadian boaters are to have a “Restricted Operator Certificate – Maritime” (ROC-M), managed by the Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons, when operating within Canadian waters. Transport Canada has informed Waggoner that “foreign recreational boaters visiting Canadian waters for less than 45 consecutive days are not required to have a VHF Radio Operator’s License.”

In U.S. Waters. A VHF radio license is not needed for U.S. boaters traveling within U.S. waters. Canadian boaters need to have/carry their ROC-M Certificate when within U.S. waters.

The requirement for a radio permit/certificate has not been strictly enforced in years past, however, it is always respectful and safest to have the required documents when traveling in foreign waters, especially during uncertain times.

U.S. Boaters. To apply for a Restricted Radio license for maritime use, U.S. boaters need to submit FCC Form 605 through the FCC’s Universal Licensing System (ULS) online platform; no test is required to obtain the permit. Stepping through the government website from beginning to end is cumbersome and may take a few tries. If you have trouble, call the support-services helpline at 877-480-3201; folks at the FCC support line are very helpful and responsive. Here are the basic steps:

  • Go to fcc.gov/obtaining-license and click on “FCC Form 605,” then click on “Online Filing,” “New User Registration,” then “Register” to create an account.
  • Go to the Commission Registration System (CORES), fill out the form (Social Security # is a required field), this FCC Registration will provide a receipt with your FRN number.
  • Once you have your FRN Number, go to fcc.gov/ULS to make application for your license – “File Online,” “Apply for new license.”
  • Go back to the Commission Registration System (CORES) to make payment. The fee for the permit is $35 and the permit is good for life.

Permit/License confirmation is provided within 24-48 business hours once the application has been completed and paid.

Canadian Boaters. To apply for a Restricted Operator Certificate-Maritime (ROC-M) in British Columbia, a boater needs to take a course and pass an exam administered by a recognized training provider. The certificate is good for life. Scheduled courses by geographic area can be found at www.marinetrainingbccom, or go to www.sailing.ca/rocm. The certificate is typically mailed once your test results are verified and processed.

Good luck with your application, or course completion. Friendly faces, smiles, and cooperation go a long way when sharing the waters of the Pacific Northwest with fellow boaters at sea, at anchorages, and at marinas. We wish everyone a wonderful boating season and happy adventures in 2025.

Photo:  Savvy Navvy