Registration In The United States; Leisure Vessels In The United States; Commercial Vessels In The United States; Do I Need A Radio Station License - ACR Electronics GLOBAL FIX - REV G Product Support Manual

2.3

Registration in the United States

It is the owner's responsibility to register 406 MHz beacons that are programmed for and purchased in the
United States. The national authority that accepts registrations in the United States is the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The fastest and easiest way to register your beacon with NOAA is to
use the online registration database at www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov. If internet is not accessible then
the owner should complete the enclosed registration form (Do not confuse this with the ACR Electronics
warranty card) and mail with the pre-addressed, postage paid envelope to:
NOAA SARSAT Beacon Registration
The information provided on the registration form is used only for rescue purposes. Complete and send the
registration immediately! Registration can be expedited by registering online or by faxing the registration form
to Fax # (301) 817-4565. If the beacon is going to be placed into immediate service, register online or by fax.
All registration forms will be entered in the 406 MHz beacon registration database within 48 hours of receipt. A
confirmation letter, a copy of the actual registration and a proof-of-registration decal will be mailed to you within
two weeks. When you receive these documents, please check the information carefully and affix the decal
to your beacon in the area marked "BEACON DECAL HERE." If you do not receive confirmation back from
NOAA, call toll free 1-888-212-7283 for assistance.
2.4

Leisure Vessels in the United States

In the United States, leisure vessels are sometimes required to have a radio station license. Leisure vessels
that are required to have a radio station license are required to modify that license when an EPIRB is added to
the vessel. For information on whether you need a radio station license, see section 2.6 (below).
2.5

Commercial Vessels in the United States

In the United States, commercial vessels that are required to have a radio station license are required to
modify that license when an EPIRB is added to the vessel. For information on whether you need a radio station
license, see section 2.6 (below).
2.6

Do I Need a Radio Station License?

The information in this section is provided for informational purposes only. Always check the FCC's website at
http://wireless.fcc.gov/services/index.htm?job=licensing&id=ship_stations
1-888-CALLFCC (225-5322) for the latest information.
You do not need a license to operate a marine VHF radio, radar, or EPIRBs aboard voluntary ships operating
domestically. The term "voluntary ships" refers to ships that are not required by law to carry a radio. Generally,
this term applies to recreation or pleasure craft. The term "voluntary ships" does not apply to the following:
1. Cargo ships over 300 gross tons navigating in the open sea;
2. Ships certified by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry more than 6 passengers for hire in the open sea or
tidewaters of the U.S.;
3. Power driven ships over 20 meters in length on navigable waterways;
4. Ships of more than 100 gross tons certified by the U.S. Coast Guard to carry at least one passenger
on navigable waterways;
5. Tow boats of more than 7.8 meters in length on navigable waterways; and,
6. Uninspected commercial fishing industry vessels required to carry a VHF radio.
7. Ships required to carry an Automatic Identification System (AIS) transceiver by the U.S. Coast Guard
regulations enacted pursuant to the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2000.
Ships are considered as operating domestically when they do not travel to foreign ports or do not transmit
radio communications to foreign stations. Sailing in international waters is permitted, so long as the previous
conditions are met. If you travel to a foreign port (e.g., Canada, Mexico, Bahamas, British Virgin Islands), a
license is required. Additionally, if you travel to a foreign port, you are required to have an operator permit.
NSOF, E/SP3
4231 Suitland Road
Suitland, MD 20746
For Faster Service, Register Online!
www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov
2
In the United States:
or call
Y1-03-0157-2 Rev. G
toll-free