Obtaining MMSI number new boat FCC

[Zzmeyer]

It would be worth trying again if you don't have your documentation number. In the "old days" you could leave it blank on the application and they would process it. Then they wouldn't for several years. Given the long lead times for processing documentation requests they may have gone back to the good old days.

[scubad]

Originally Posted by SailRN

For international travel and international communications, you will need a station license (includes MMSI) AND an operator's license; restricted radiotelephone being the easiest and cheapest one. The U.S. Power Squadron and Boat U.S. both offer a MMSI, but as another poster stated it is NOT for international travel or international communications.


https://www.fcc.gov/ship-radio-stations
operations tab, licensing tab


Things change, but in 2018 I got a station license with MMSI without a documentation number. At that time the station license was issued as valid for 10 a, and the restricted radiotelephone operator license for a lifetime.

We will need International so it appears we need the Commercial. Just trying to be sure we are doing the right thing. Thanks!

[scubad]

Originally Posted by Zzmeyer

It would be worth trying again if you don't have your documentation number. In the "old days" you could leave it blank on the application and they would process it. Then they wouldn't for several years. Given the long lead times for processing documentation requests they may have gone back to the good old days.

Any idea how long it is taking to get an MMSI # for International use these days?

[SailRN]

Originally Posted by scubad

Any idea how long it is taking to get an MMSI # for International use these days?

It is mostly computerized, and payment made through pay.gov speeds processing. I think it should be within a week, but as they say : YMMV.


You will need a FRN (apply through the URL) and then you can apply for the licenses.


Lots of luck, the FCC website is one of the worst designed and difficult to use I've ever had the misfortune to encounter.

[Letterkenny]

It required this when I tried last to get a MMSI while my coast guard registration is in process.