MMSI for a new boat

[Zzmeyer]

I have just purchased a new boat that will be used in international waters. I understand I can't use BoatUS for obtaining an MMSI for my DSC and my AIS. The FCC website says I need my documentation number for registration, but my agent said it will take a while to get my documentatin number for the boat. Can I obtain an MMSI from the FCC without registration or documentation number? Thanks.

[btrayfors]

Originally Posted by Zzmeyer

I have just purchased a new boat that will be used in international waters. I understand I can't use BoatUS for obtaining an MMSI for my DSC and my AIS. The FCC website says I need my documentation number for registration, but my agent said it will take a while to get my documentatin number for the boat. Can I obtain an MMSI from the FCC without registration or documentation number? Thanks.

The MMSI number is assigned when you document your boat's transmitting equipment and apply for a Station License from the FCC. You're right that the Boat US MMSI isn't good for use abroad, because it typically is NOT registered in the ITU international boat database.

When you apply for the radio license, check everything: VHF, HF, radar, EPIRB, satphone, etc. even if you don't have the equipment yet. Thus, you will be covered and won't have to apply again. I believe the cost these days is about $200.

Typically, it doesn't take very long to get the station and radio licenses. You'll need two:

1. a STATION LICENSE for the boat; and
2. an OPERATOR's PERMIT for the user.

The STATION LICENSE is good for 10 years. The OPERATOR'S PERMIT is good for life.

You can apply for these on the FCC website. There are several types of operator's permits...the one you want is the Restricted license -- no test.

Documentation of the boat by the USCG is quite another matter. Your agent may be able to advise you, but mainly you have to show proof of the history of ownership of the boat...continuously since manufacture.

Bill

[Zzmeyer]

Bill

Great input. You're the bomb. Thanks. I was told the other day it is taking months to get the documentation from USCG. I plan on taking the boat offshore as soon as I take delivery. I know I can clear into Mexico with an agent certificate/affidavit of document application, but sure hope I can use my AIS/VHF.

[btrayfors]

Well, the FCC is pretty fast. You should be able to get the Station License and Restricted Radiotelephone Operator's Permit before you leave.

By the way, for a quick check on how long it's taking these days, suggest you call Gary Jensen at Dockside Radio in Punta Gorda (www.docksideradio.com). Gary can also handle all the paperwork for you if you like....not a bad idea because the FCC website is a mess!

Good luck,

Bill

[autumnbreeze27]

I just got my station license within the last few weeks. I filled out the forms online and during the night they emailed me my MMSI, so it's pretty quick.

I don't think you need a MMSI on the RX side for AIS to work, but maybe you want to TX.

[Zzmeyer]

I want to transmit AID and I think I need the license to be legal with the VHF/DSC. did you have your registration/documentation number when you applied online?

[donradcliffe]

I'd give the FCC a call.

[transmitterdan]

You need the U.S. Coast guard number to enable the MMSI to work. When your EPIRB goes off or make a DCS distress call they get the MMSI number. They then use that to get the coast guard number which leads them into the personal info and details about the boat. So you need the coast guard number to put on the FCC application.

[Gudgeon]

EPIRB have a unique ID number for each unit it has nothing to do with the MMSI number.

[btrayfors]

Correct (unique EPIRB number, registered with NOAA).

However, even to buy an AIS tranceiver -- transmitter and receiver -- you will need the MMSI number. Many times, you cannot even buy one without that number because the vendor has to enter it.

As I said above, when you apply for the Station Licence, just check every equipment box on the application.

Bill

[donradcliffe]

His problem is that the USCG is way backed up on issuing documentation--he needs to talk to the FCC to see if he can get a license/MMSI without the documentation number.

[Garrettw]

I received my temp documentation number in a few weeks after sending my application back in August of 2014. Is the USCG not doing temp documentation any more?

[transmitterdan]

Originally Posted by Gudgeon

EPIRB have a unique ID number for each unit it has nothing to do with the MMSI number.

The EPIRB number is not an MMSI number. But the EPIRB database contains your MMSI (or it should contain).

[ranger58sb]

I have read elsewhere that USCG isn't doing temp documentation anymore; dunno if true. I have also read elsewhere that USCG will do a rush job if you call and ask (beg?); ditto dunno if true.

Our "official ship number" is entered on the FCC "Radio Station Authorization" (SA-Ship Recreational or Voluntary Equipped) form. Dunno if a state registration number would have sufficed, but FCC would be able to answer that. (Presumably there are registered -- i.e., not documented -- boats out there with radio licenses and MMSI numbers.)


The boat info is not on the Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit.

-Chris

[meirriba]

State registration number if fine for FCC purposes.
No need for USCG number.
I have registered a boat VHF station with the FCC for a client of mine two days ago using only Delaware registration number. Already got callsign and mmsi.