Callsigns

You’ve got the boat, now you need a Callsign to go with it. It’s easy, you can get one online from our Education website, go to Buy a new Callsign. Then fill out your details, and for $60, you have a unique Callsign that's yours for life. 

If you have an AIS (Automatic Identification System) or DSC (Digital Selective Calling), you’ll also need an MMSI number. You can get that online too for just $10 here. Check out our Maritime Short-Range Operator Certificate (MSROC) to learn more about DSC. 

In Aotearoa New Zealand, all users of marine VHF radios are legally required to hold a Maritime VHF Operator's Certificate, unless you're using the radio in an emergency or distress situation. So if you want to log a trip report with Coastguard or talk to your fellow boaties on the local ship-to-ship radio channel, you need to get yourself a VHF Operator’s Certificate. We offer online or classroom courses around the country.

Coastguard Members get 10% off the Maritime VHF Operator’s Certificate, so if you’re not already a member join up now to get your discount!

For more details about the course and to book, see Maritime VHF Operator's Certificate.

If the previous owner of the boat you've bought wants to keep the Callsign, you’ll need to get yourself a new one at Buy a new Callsign. 

If they don’t want to keep the Callsign, it can be transferred to you, but you’ll need to get the written consent from the previous owner. For details, go to Change of Callsign ownership.

If you can’t get the consent of the previous owner, then get yourself a new Callsign – transferring the ownership details or getting a new callsign is the same price.

If you ever want to update the details on your Callsign, it's easy. Give our Customer Care team a call at 0800 BOATIE (0800 262 843) 8:30am - 5pm Monday to Friday, excluding Public Holidays.