GMDSS Restricted Operators Certificate (ROC)
Marine Radio Course
Course Overview.
The GMDSS ROC (Restricted Operators Certificate) is the minimum level of maritime radio qualification required by the professional seafarer. It meets all STCW conditions and is the minimum requirement for MCA Certificates of Competence.
The Restricted Operators Certificate is designed for Seafarers operating exclusively within GMDSS Sea Area A1.
This certificate is suitable for Fishermen operating in coastal waters, as well as offshore, windfarm and workboat operators.
Course Content
This course is taught using radio simulators and covers the following topics:
- Marine VHF Radio
- VHF DSC controller
- Navtex
- EPIRB, SART, AIS-SART, Handheld VHF
- Distress communications and logging
- General radio regulations
Examination Type
- The examination has three sections
Written general knowledge exam - Radiotelephony voice and written exam
- Operational performance practical exam
Other fees and requirements
This course also requires:
- Passport size photo with candidate’s name on the back
Certificates will be sent directly to candidates on successful completion of the exam.
To apply for your place or find out more:
Upcoming Courses
May 2026
13
May
Wednesday
GMDSS VHF Short Range Certificate – 13 May 2026
Newlyn | Seafood Cornwall Training Hub, Strand, Newlyn, Penzance
14
May
Thursday
18
May
Monday
Health and Safety for New Entrants – 18 May 2026
Newlyn | Seafood Cornwall Training Hub, Strand, Newlyn, Penzance
19
May
Tuesday
Firefighting and Fire Prevention for Fishermen – 19 May 2026
Newlyn | Seafood Cornwall Training Hub, Strand, Newlyn, Penzance
20
May
Wednesday
Basic First Aid and Elementary First Aid (STCW) – 20 May 2026
Newlyn | Seafood Cornwall Training Hub, Strand, Newlyn, Penzance
21
May
Thursday
STCW Personal Survival Techniques/Sea Survival – 21 May 2026
Newquay | Heron Tennis and Conference, CentreTrenance Leisure Park, Edgcumbe Ave, Newquay TR7 2LZ
June 2026
08 -
11
June
Monday
Proficiency in Medical First Aid – 8 – 11 June 2026
Newlyn | Seafood Cornwall Training Hub, Strand, Newlyn, Penzance
15 -
19
June
Monday
AEC1 Engine Course – 15 – 19 June 2026
Newlyn | Seafood Cornwall Training Hub, Strand, Newlyn, Penzance
23
June
Tuesday
GMDSS VHF Short Range Certificate – 23 June 2026
Newlyn | Seafood Cornwall Training Hub, Strand, Newlyn, Penzance
24
June
Wednesday
Basic First Aid and Elementary First Aid (STCW) – 24 May 2026
Newlyn | Seafood Cornwall Training Hub, Strand, Newlyn, Penzance
25
June
Thursday
STCW Personal Survival Techniques/Sea Survival – 25 June 2026
Newquay | Heron Tennis and Conference, CentreTrenance Leisure Park, Edgcumbe Ave, Newquay TR7 2LZ
29
June
Monday
Stability Awareness for Experienced Fishermen – 29 JUNE 2026
The Centre Newlyn | Chywoone Hill, Newlyn, Penzance, Cornwall. TR18 5AR
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