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DSC Procedures Flashcards

6 cards from real RYA SRC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 DSC Procedures flashcards as text

  1. What does DSC stand for in VHF marine radio?

    Answer: Digital Selective Calling

    DSC stands for Digital Selective Calling, a system that allows automated distress alerts and vessel-to-vessel calling using digital signals on VHF radio.

  2. Which VHF channel is used exclusively for DSC distress alerting?

    Answer: Channel 70

    Channel 70 is reserved exclusively for DSC distress alerting and calling. It must never be used for voice communications.

  3. What information is automatically included in a DSC distress alert?

    Answer: MMSI number, nature of distress, and vessel position if GPS-linked

    A DSC distress alert automatically transmits the vessel's MMSI number, the nature of distress (if selected), and position with time if the radio is connected to a GPS.

  4. After sending a DSC distress alert, what must you do immediately?

    Answer: Switch to Channel 16 and transmit a MAYDAY voice call

    After transmitting a DSC distress alert on Channel 70, you must immediately switch to Channel 16 and transmit a MAYDAY voice message to provide further details to rescuers.

  5. How often should a DSC distress alert be repeated if no acknowledgement is received?

    Answer: After 3.5 to 4.5 minutes

    If no acknowledgement is received, the DSC distress alert should be repeated after 3.5 to 4.5 minutes to allow time for coast stations to respond without causing excessive interference.

  6. What is a DSC individual call used for?

    Answer: Calling a specific vessel or coast station by their MMSI number

    A DSC individual call allows you to contact a specific vessel or coast station directly by entering their unique MMSI number, similar to dialling a telephone number.

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  1. rya.org.uk — Score release, eligibility, fees, exam format, registration deadline, test delivery · verified Oct 2026