Use of a maritime mobile radio telephone

In the Netherlands, the use of maritime transmission equipment is subject to rules.

Use of maritime transmission equipment on a vessel

If you intend to use maritime transmission equipment on your vessel, you have to notify the Radiocommunications Agency (Agentschap Telecom). Your data will then be entered in the National Frequency Register. You will receive confirmation of registration and an internationally recognised Ship Station Licence.

It is possible to transfer a registration to a new user. In that case, you do not have to withdraw your notification and the new user of the frequency spectrum does not have to make a new notification.

Use of maritime mobile radio telephones from the shore

You need a permit to use a maritime mobile radio telephone system from the shore, just as you do for shore stations. You also need a permit to use special channels (e.g. those reserved for oil refineries or port services).

Operating certificate

In order to operate a maritime mobile radio telephone system, you need a maritime communication operator certificate (Basiscertificaat Marifonie), Maritime Communications A (MarCom A) or MarCom B. You need to take an exam for this. Details on the certificate required for the various equipments can be found in the equipment summary on the (Dutch-language) website of the Radiocommunications Agency.

People without a certificate are only permitted to operate the equipment if a certificate holder is present in the operating room. The holder of the operating certificate is then responsible.