RYA SRC Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield RYA SRC facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What key information is encoded in a 406 MHz EPIRB signal? → The vessel's unique identifier (linked to MMSI/registration) and GPS position if fitted
2. What phrase is used to indicate that radio silence may be relaxed during a distress incident? → PRUDONCE
3. What does 'SEELONCE FEENEE' signal? → The distress situation is over and normal communications may resume
4. How often should a DSC distress alert be repeated if no acknowledgement is received? → After 3.5 to 4.5 minutes
5. What is the phonetic alphabet word for 'B'? → Bravo
6. What is Channel 10 typically used for in UK waters? → Oil pollution and coastguard working channel
7. At approximately what range can a searching vessel's radar detect a SART, assuming a radar antenna height of about 15 metres? → 8–10 nautical miles
8. A yacht's engine has failed in busy shipping lanes and the crew considers themselves in danger. Which call is most appropriate? → MAYDAY, as the vessel and crew are in grave and imminent danger
9. What is the correct phrase to impose radio silence during a MAYDAY situation? → SEELONCE MAYDAY
10. When responding to a radio check with the best possible signal quality, which response is correct? → All of the above are acceptable
11. How long must a SART be capable of operating continuously after being activated in distress mode? → 48 hours
12. What is the international phonetic alphabet word for the letter 'A'? → Alfa
13. During normal operation at sea, when must a VHF watch be maintained on Channel 16? → At all times the radio is switched on, unless temporarily on another channel
14. What is the operator's responsibility regarding radio watch keeping? → Maintain a continuous watch on Channel 16 and Channel 70 (if DSC fitted) when underway
15. What colour light does a float-free EPIRB flash to indicate it is transmitting after deployment? → Red
16. Can a hand-held VHF with DSC be used as a primary distress radio on a vessel? → Yes, if it has a programmed MMSI and is connected to GPS
17. What action should a vessel take on hearing a MAYDAY if no coast station acknowledges within a few minutes? → Transmit a MAYDAY RELAY on behalf of the distressed vessel
18. Which of the following situations would most appropriately warrant a SECURITE call? → A large unlit shipping container has been spotted floating in a busy shipping lane
19. What is the purpose of a MAYDAY RELAY transmission? → To repeat a MAYDAY call on behalf of a vessel in distress that you have received
20. How often should an EPIRB typically be serviced or have its battery replaced? → In accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, typically every 2 years
21. Can an MMSI be reused after a vessel is decommissioned? → No, Ofcom policy is that MMSIs are not reused to prevent database confusion
22. Where should an EPIRB be registered in the United Kingdom? → With the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA)
23. What is the maximum power output of a standard fixed VHF marine radio? → 25 watts
24. What is the recommended action if you sell your vessel and the radio is included in the sale? → Cancel your MMSI with Ofcom and advise the new owner to register their own
25. How should the number '0' (zero) be spoken in radio communications? → Zero (not 'nought' or 'oh')
26. What is the purpose of the hydrostatic release unit (HRU) fitted to a Category 1 EPIRB? → To automatically release and free the EPIRB from its bracket when submerged to 1–4 metres
27. What is the phonetic alphabet word for 'Q'? → Quebec
28. What action must a radio operator take if asked for their licence by an authority? → Produce the Ship Radio Licence and their SRC certificate on request
29. What is the maximum permitted power output for a handheld VHF marine radio? → 6 watts
30. What does the proword 'CORRECTION' indicate during a radio message? → An error has been made in the transmission, and the correct version follows