Sailing Internationally? Master or refresh your Marine VHF Radio and GMDSS skills — and get certified. Be prepared for emergencies and confident in daily communication in coastal waters.

Every crew member should know how to operate a marine VHF radio — especially in emergencies. Knowledge saves lives at sea, and international regulations require at least one certified operator on board.

This Short Range Certificate (SRC) Course is an officially approved training program designed for yacht skippers and recreational sailors. It provides the essential communication skills required for safe and legal maritime operations in coastal areas.

The course follows ITU recommendations, making it one of the most widely recognized entry-level radio operator certifications globally. It also complies with CEPT/ERC/REC 31-04, the most widely adopted European standard. The certificate is valid in most CEPT member states, ensuring compliance in many popular sailing destinations — including Germany, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Denmark and beyond. For boat registration, authorities such as the Polish Register and Swiss BAKOM may require this certificate in order to assign an MMSI number to your vessel.

Course Features

• Confident VHF Operation: You will learn to operate VHF radios, understand their features, and use communication protocols for emergencies and routine situations.
• Government-Approved Certification: Meets ITU and CEPT/ERC/REC 31-04 recommendations.
• Trusted Authority:Issued under the supervision of the Latvian Electronic Communications Office — an official ITU member authority. Developed with leading maritime organizations, including the Latvian Coast Guard and MRCC.
• Flexible, Fast & Online: Save time, study at your own pace, anytime, anywhere. Course duration is less than one day – get certified today!
• Lifetime Access: The SkipperCheck.net Short Range Certificate is valid for life, and you can refresh it anytime by completing our online course again — for free.
• Globally Recognized: Meets the requirements of most charter agencies, marine insurers, and flag state registries in Europe and internationally.

How It Works

• Enroll Online: Gain immediate access to the course materials.
• Learn at Your Pace: Begin learning with engaging, animated videos and study materials. One comprehensive lesson is also available in German.
• We are continuously improving the course. Below are draft examples, not yet published.
• Take the Quiz type exam:Validate your knowledge with an interactive quiz developed in collaboration with coast guards and maritime academy professors. It tests both theory and practice using visual materials to help you understand key radio functions. Designed for safety and learning, the quiz explains each incorrect answer and can be retaken until everything is correct and confidently remembered.
• Practical Assessment via Video Call:We use Zoom or WhatsApp video calls to guide beginners with no prior VHF experience through a short practical assessment, ensuring the same quality as an in-person interview. During the session, we help you feel confident operating a VHF radio. If you already have VHF experience the 1:1 assessment is not required.
• Earn Your Certification: Receive your globally recognized SRC certificate immediately after passing.
• Optional Upgrade: Choose a credit card-style certificate for added convenience (a small printing/shipping fee applies).