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. What is the correct phrase to impose radio silence during a MAYDAY situation? → SEELONCE MAYDAY
9. How long must a SART be capable of operating continuously after being activated in distress mode? → 48 hours
10. What is the international phonetic alphabet word for the letter 'A'? → Alfa
11. 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
12. What colour light does a float-free EPIRB flash to indicate it is transmitting after deployment? → Red
13. 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
14. 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
15. 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
16. 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
17. How often should an EPIRB typically be serviced or have its battery replaced? → In accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, typically every 2 years
18. Can an MMSI be reused after a vessel is decommissioned? → No, Ofcom policy is that MMSIs are not reused to prevent database confusion
19. Where should an EPIRB be registered in the United Kingdom? → With the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA)
20. What is the maximum power output of a standard fixed VHF marine radio? → 25 watts
21. 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
22. How should the number '0' (zero) be spoken in radio communications? → Zero (not 'nought' or 'oh')
23. 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
24. What is the phonetic alphabet word for 'Q'? → Quebec
25. 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
26. What is the maximum permitted power output for a handheld VHF marine radio? → 6 watts
27. What does the proword 'CORRECTION' indicate during a radio message? → An error has been made in the transmission, and the correct version follows
28. In DSC, what is a 'position request' call used for? → Requesting another vessel to send their current GPS position
29. What is the correct procedure if you hear a MAYDAY call but the coast guard does not appear to have received it? → Transmit a MAYDAY RELAY on behalf of the vessel in distress
30. What is the minimum content a DSC distress alert must contain? → MMSI number and nature of distress (position is added automatically if GPS connected)