The Federal Communications Commission requires a marine radio operator permit for certain vessel, coast, and aviation radiotelephone stations. All applicants must pass an exam to obtain this lifetime FCC permit.
Not just anyone can become a marine radio operator. First, all applicants for this permit must be able to understand and speak English well enough to receive and transmit radio messages in English. They must also be either a U.S. citizen, legal resident, or work-visa holder.
FCC radio-operator permit applicants must generally take either a written or telegraphy test. There are different elements on this test that are essentially subtests. For marine radio operators, only Element 1 of the written test must be taken and passed.
Element 1 covers basic radio law and basic maritime radio practices. Applicants must answer 18 out of 24 questions, which is 75% of the questions.
To prepare for this marine radio test, you can use the FCC’s own “Examination Question Pools” page and resources. Read through the study materials and sample questions for Element 1. There is a link to this page in the Resources at the bottom of this article.
After passing the Element 1 written test, the applicant then fills out and files FCC Form 605. There is a link to this form below, and it can either be printed out and sent in as a paper form or submitted online. The passing score certification must also be filed with Form 605.
Resources:
FCC: Examination Question Pools (Includes Element 1 for Marine Radio Operator Permit Applicants)
Federal Communications Commission: FCC Form 605