Each marine DSC VHF radio worldwide must have an MMSI code to be able to use the DSC functionality. (Similar to the unique telephone number required to be able to use a telephone!)
In South Africa, the MMSI code is issued by ICASA. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get yours:
OPTION 1:
- register an account with ICASA here: https://online.icasa.org.za/
- Login to your ICASA account and click on “apply” for Radio Frequency Spectrum
- Proceed to fill in your details, attach your SRC* certificate and click submit. You will receive an email requesting a once-off fee of R480 (2024) for the ship station registration.
- Once processed, you will receive a further email requesting payment of the license fee:
- R188.00 1 year license fee
or - R784.00 5 year license fee (2024)
- R188.00 1 year license fee
- Your application will be processed and you will be emailed your ship station with callsign and MMSI number
OPTION 2:
We do all the work for you! Simply supply us with the following:
- Copy of your ID or passport
- SAMSA SCR* Certificate.
- Authorisation letter to do the application on your behalf. Download sample here.
- Physical address, contact number, nationality, vessel name, -purpose and -tonnage, and details of other radio’s on board if applicable. Download form here.
- R576.00 for ship station registration.
- R940.00 for 5 year license.
* The SRC (Short Range Certificate) can be obtained by attending a course at your local sailing/boating school/club and passing the SAMSA exam. You can prepare for the course by taking a free training course by eGMDSS here, or through IYT here. The course material for the SAMSA SRC exam is available from SA Sailing website here.
The SRC certificate is for life and does not require an annual license fee.
Contact us for further assistance.