OPERATING RULES
1
1
D
Priorities
• Read all rules and regulations pertaining to priorities and
keep an up-to-date copy handy. Safety and distress calls
take priority over all others.
• You must monitor channel 16 when you are not operating on
another channel.
• False or fraudulent distress calls are prohibited under law.
D
Privacy
• Information overheard but not intended for you cannot law-
fully be used in any way.
• Indecent or profane language is prohibited.
D
Radio licenses
SHIP STATION LICENSE
When your craft is equipped with a VHF FM transceiver, you
must have a current radio station license before using the
transceiver. It is unlawful to operate a ship station which is not
licensed.
Inquire through your dealer or the appropriate government
agency for a Ship-Radiotelephone license. This license in-
cludes the call sign which is your craft’s identification for radio
purposes.
OPERATOR’S LICENSE
A restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is the license
most often held by small vessel radio operators when a radio
is not required for safety purposes.
The Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit must be
posted near the transceiver or be kept with the operator. Only
a licensed radio operator may operate a transceiver.
However, non-licensed individuals may talk over a transceiver
if a licensed operator starts, supervises, ends the call and
makes the necessary log entries.
A current copy of the applicable government rules and regu-
lations is only required to be on hand for vessels in which a
radio telephone is compulsory. However, even if you are not
required to have these on hand it is your responsibility to be
thoroughly acquainted with all pertinent rules and regulations.
