The Short Range Certificate (SRC) is the minimum qualification required by law to control the operation of VHF and VHF Digital Selective Calling (DSC) equipment on any British flagged vessel voluntarily fitted with a radio. This includes both fixed and hand held equipment using International channels. The RYA Online SRC/VHF Radio Course uses straight-forward language and descriptions, helping you to understand important legal concepts and maritime SRC/VHF regulations and how they affect you whilst out on the water.
A radio is a key piece of safety equipment on board and it is vital to understand the correct procedures. Unnecessary transmissions could block out a Mayday distress call. The RYA Online SRC/VHF Radio Course includes a wide variety of real-life situations - both routine and distress. The new and innovative radio simulator helps you feel comfortable with handling a radio in a real-life situation.
When you have completed your online course you eligible to attend SRC/VHF exam. Prior to siting your exam you will have the opportunity to practice with the radio equipment before commencing your exam.
The practical session and exam is held at any RYA training centre that offer this service. Urban Truant’s training centre is based in Swanwick Marina and sessions are held regularly.
As described above, the course is split into two distinctive separate sections:
Part 1 Complete the RYA SRC/VHF Radio operator course online - 6-8 hours.
Part 2 Complete practical radio operation and exam. This 1 hour session needs to legally take place at an RYA Recognised Training School and prepares you to take a short written SRC/VHF Exam. You can sit this exam at our training facility based in Swanwick Marina on the river Hamble, or at any other Registered RYA Centre that may be closer to you. Exams can be arranged at a time to suit your diary at our training center in Swanwick, Southampton. There is an exam fee of £70 which is paid directly to the RYA.
Please note: The VHF/SRC course is delivered through the RYA’s Interactive Site. The course runs on PC, MAC and is also available through an iOS APP for an iPad/iPad Mini. Please check the full compatibility here.