Mmsi number registration. Mar 13, 2025 · Learn how to obtain, register and use your MMSI number for maritime safety. Learn how to register, transfer, or update your MMSI number for maritime digital selective calling, automatic identification systems, and other equipment. On a brand new boat that you're going to USCG Document, WA State will not issue you any registration numbers. Who issues MMSI? If your recreational vessel will be traveling outside of US domestic water s (including Canada, Mexico and the Bahamas), you will need an MMSI assigned by the FCC. Maritime Mobile Service Identity Why MMSI? Any boater could face a sudden situation caused by a fire, collision, capsize, sinking boat or medical emergency. Expect to receive your MMSI number within 4-10 days of receipt. Option 2: Transfer your MMSI registration to the new vessel owner at the time the vessel is sold, following the Transferring MMSI Registration procedures Jul 31, 2023 · The federal registration number must be displayed inside the boat (most people put it in the engine compartment or somewhere like that. We can obtain an MMSI number for you under your boat's flag. This registration fee includes complimentary BoatUS membership. , users can obtain an MMSI assignment from their telecommunications authority or ship registry, often by obtaining or amending their ship station license. You can obtain an MMSI number from the telecommunications authority or ship registry for your country. Feb 3, 2025 · I had a post about re-flagging a vessel and how that affects the MMSI. EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Repeater Beacon) AIS MOB (Man Over Board) MMSI registration includes contact information to be used in case of an emergency. Mar 10, 2025 · A Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) is a 9-digit number used to identify a ship via radio. Boat information included in the MMSI registration is part of the MMSI database and is not broadcast. If you sell the boat and leave the radio, it stays. com. I'm based in southern california and plan to (eventually) make my way down to Mexico for some vacation trips. The Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) is a unique nine-digit number that identifies transmitted signals within the GMDSS system. Oct 4, 2022 · Learn how to obtain and use a nine-digit MMSI number for your ship or coast radio station. The boat is being built in South Africa, and this fall, we'll sail it back to the US. S. Feb 4, 2022 · To get an MMSI number you need your WA state registration number or your USCG Documentation number. In the USA, you can obtain an MMSI number from these sources: Cruisers & Sailing Forums > Engineering & Systems > Marine Electronics MMSI registration info change with purchase of boat « one fridge freezer or separate units | Linking older Raymarine through a multiplexer and wi-fi » MMSI Registration Belgium provides you with a complete MMSI radio license package that covers VHF, AIS, Radar and EPIRB equipment. Should you need to correct the MMSI number already programmed into your DSC-capable VHF marine radio, please follow the radio manufacturer’s guidelines in order to reset your MMSI input. Coast Guard for use in emergency situations. At present, only FCC and Shine Micro are providing and registering marine VHF handheld MMSIs Oct 10, 2024 · What is an MMSI? The Maritime Mobile Service Identity is a globally unique identifier for a maritime service user. If you apply with us you will receive within 2-3 weeks an official licensed document from the Belgium Telecom Authority with your unique call sign, MMSI and AIS number. Many countries offer online registration services for convenience. A Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) is a series of nine digits that uniquely identifies marine VHF radios and coast guard stations. Get your MMSI registration online with BoatUS for fast setup and reliable DSC marine radio communication. 2 Vessels participating in the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System are also required to program their MMSI into their AIS The Mobile Marine Safety Identity (MMSI) number is a nine-digit code that acts as a DSC self-identification number, and it is required to use the DSC capabilities of your radio. Each is a nine-digit number, similar to a cell phone number, and there are two general types: Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) Your MMSI identifies your vessel or boat. You can obtain an MMSI number free-of-charge from any Industry Canada office. Once you submit the form, you will receive a copy of your application as confirmation of submission. Coast Guard MISLE search and rescue database that is accessible only to the U. What is an MMSI Number and Why Do I Have to Register? By law, in order to use DSC features, fixed mount radios must be assigned an MMSI number and you must program that number into your radio. The information contained on this page is based on instructions outlined in the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) Client If you sold the radio and are unable to contact the purchaser to transfer the MMSI registration, then you must update your registration to note the situation and, if possible, identify the purchaser; then cancel the registration. 00. Jan 30, 2025 · Vessel identification is crucial for maritime safety, security, and regulatory compliance. BoatUS offers fast & easy way to obtain an MMSI number. -and that number serves as an identifier for the boat. This identification number is issued to new Ship Radio and Ship Portable Radio Licenses. Coast Guard users can obtain an MMSI through Commandant CG-672 in accordance with Commandant Instruction M2000. resides in the U. If you would like to register for a new MMSI number please visit the U. You can think of it as a telephone number for your radio. Learn more here! MMSI Service For your yacht’s radio equipment, you need a MMSI radio license. You get this number when you complete the MMSI number registration process. That got me thinking about how/where to get the initial MMSI. MMSI numbers issued by the FCC in connection with a ship station license reside in the international ITU Search & Rescue database that is accessible to all search and rescue organizations in the world. The application forms are also available from If your EPIRB or PLB is equipped with an Automatic Identification System (AIS) or has a manufacturer-programmed Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number that is different from your vessel’s MMSI, enter it in the AIS MMSI # field when registering your beacon. Discover the importance of MMSI numbers in maritime safety. (Be sure to Mar 13, 2025 · Learn how to obtain, register and use your MMSI number for maritime safety. Are you looking to get this complete package quickly and without any bureaucratic red tape? BlueWater Registration Services can provide you with the Because modern handheld VHF radios are often DSC-capable, they are able to be programmed with an MMSI number. After that, you must add it to your radio using VHF MMSI programming. Jan 22, 2020 · The best way to transfer to MMSI number is to have the previous owner cancel his license thus freeing up the MMSI for you. Learn more here! Sep 6, 2025 · The MMSI number uniquely identifies your vessel on the water. Click here for details Outside the U. Cruisers & Sailing Forums > Engineering & Systems > Marine Electronics AIS Registration, MMSI Number « Built in Antenna Tuner | Mast Mount for JRC 1000 ? » What is an MMSI MMSI or Maritime Mobile Service Identity is a unique nine-digit number identifying your vessel. This number helps send emergency alerts with your boat’s identity and location. We at Nautilus GPS CANNOT provide you with an MMSI number. Indeed you are required to obtain an MMSI number in the country where your boat is registered. The MMSI identifies the ship, not the equipment or vessel owner. Note that different countries have different regulations for issuing MMSI numbers. Canadians can obtain an MMSI from Industry Canada. Maintaining your MMSI Registration FCC ship station license MMSI information is sent to the U. Our comprehensive guide covers registration requirements, DSC functionality, and emergency applications. Jun 22, 2020 · Exactly what do the MMSI number and call sign do, why do I need them, and do I need to register my details anywhere to make them valid and up to date? If so, how and with whom do I do this? This page provides information on the process and procedures for submitting the following requests: Application for an Automatic Identification System Aid to Navigation (AIS AtoN); and Obtention of a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI). The MMSI registration data provided to BoatU. A marine radio’s DSC capability is not able to be used without programming an MMSI into the radio prior to use. Oct 9, 2023 · In a move to simplify and expedite the ship registration process, Singapore Ship Owners now have access to an online application system for acquiring crucial components: the Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number and the Ship Station Licence. It is usually allocated as part of the initial radiolicensing procedure but can be requested at any point afterwards. It is important to note that you don’t need to get an MMSI number if your handheld radio doesn’t have DSC. Jul 31, 2023 · The federal registration number must be displayed inside the boat (most people put it in the engine compartment or somewhere like that. Get a new radio for the boat, and you’ll have to either get a new MMSI or link the one you already have. Press the “Red” button on the A Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) is a 9-digit number used to identify a ship radio. It functions like a telephone number for the devices on your boat. Find links to official sources and tips for using DSC features and functions. This article explores the new streamlined procedures, making ship registration with the Singapore Ship Registry more efficient 4. An MMSI comprises a series of nine digits, consisting of three Maritime Identification Digits (country-codes), concatenated with a specific identifier MMSI registration? Hi everyone, I'm a new owner of a 1984 Catalina 36 MK1. ) followed by the unique station identification. Learn how this unique identifier empowers vessels and enhances communication for a safer maritime. 10. A Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) is effectively a maritime object's international maritime telephone number, a temporarily assigned UID issued by that object's current flag state (unlike an IMO number, which is a permanent global UID). It acts as your radio’s calling number for Digital Selective Calling (DSC) radios or Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) units. We're doing a whole system upgrade from 2006 gear to current generation. An MMSI number (Maritime Mobile Service Identity Number) is a 9-digit code required in AIS transponder equipment, and also used in VHF marine radio equipment, EPIRB's, and all INMARSAT satellite terminals. MMSI is a nine-digit number assigned to a marine radio & transfers your registration information to the U. It can require a bit of time to complete the transfer process so if the seller is willing to begin the process hopefully before the sale is final, you will be ahead of the game. However you will then need to WAIT to apply for your license until the cancellation is completed. GPS), not intended for dedicated use on a particular ship, is assigned a unique 9-digit number in the format 8 1 M 2 I 3 D 4 X 5 X 6 X 7 X 8 X 9. Under the terms of international treaty, the FCC assigns MMSI to commercial and recreational US-flagged The MMSI registration data provided to BoatU. What is an MMSI number and how can I obtain one? MMSI stands for Maritime Mobile Service Identity and is used for radios with digital selective calling, as well as Automatic Identification System ( AIS ) transponders. gov for guidance concerning MMSIs used on Federal Vessels, including finding your agency's contact information for MMSI assignment and registration. Coast Guard so that search and rescue responders can identify and locate mariners who are in distress. You don't want to do that, either take the radio, delete the MMSI number, or have the new owner change the MMSI number in the radio. Coast Guard. Aug 28, 2023 · Simply, an MMSI is a nine-digit number that’s a registered unique identifier, tied to your boat and linked to all the information about the boat. Now, BoatUS offers an easy online MMSI registration for $25 that makes obtaining an MMSI number simple, adds an extra layer of safety by partnering with the US Coast Guard to share information, and offers valuable boater benefits. This seems quite logical when you know that the ship registration services share their registry with the national radio frequency services. We ordered a plaque with the federal registration number and will glue it inside the boat. The old owner had a mmsi for US waters through Boat US. MMSI registration? Hi everyone, I'm a new owner of a 1984 Catalina 36 MK1. Dec 30, 2008 · The number stays with the RADIO, where you entered it. Two of the most important identifiers are the Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) and International Maritime Organization (IMO) numbers. To register a VHF marine radio in the USA there are 2 options: Through FCC for International Use: If your vessel requires FCC licensing, you’ll obtain an MMSI number during the FCC application/licensing process. Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers are a series of nine digits used to uniquely identify a DSC radio or a group of DSC radios on a vessel. Jul 7, 2023 · What Is MMSI and Why Is It Important? An MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) is a 9-digit number that works like a phone number for your boat. Find out the differences between international and domestic MMSIs, and how to update or transfer your MMSI number. Jan 21, 2019 · WHAT IS AN MMSI NUMBER? All boats operating on the high seas are assigned one nine-digit MMSI for all onboard equipment capable of transmitting and receiving digital signals-including EPIRBs, AIS transponders, DSC-capable VHFs, all INMARSAT satellite terminals, etc. An MMSI is a unique nine-digit number assigned to maritime ship and coast stations that use Digital Selective Calling (DSC) or Automatic Identification System (AIS) equipment. Ask Previous Boat Owner to Cancel License The best tip about transferring an MMSI is to start the process of having the selling boat owner agree to and initiate cancellation of their MMSI registration. If you’re a US boater and plan on traveling to or communicating with a foreign port, you can get an MMSI number by applying for a ship station license through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Cancelled MMSI registrations remain in the database and can be useful during search and rescue. Therefore, to ensure the safety of individuals and vessels on the water, ISED issues identity numbers for digital maritime radios. Feb 21, 2025 · Your MMSI number is valid for the lifetime of your vessel, but it’s essential to keep your registration information up-to-date with the issuing authority. The Maritime Mobile Service Identity is a unique nine digit number that identifies transmitted signals within the GMDSS system. Contact ntia_mmsi@ntia. The Fee for MMSI registration through this program is $25. We'll have some kind of in-transit documentation that gets us through to the Obtaining MMSIs for DSC-equipped Marine VHF Handhelds A marine VHF handheld transceiver with DSC and an integral global navigation satellite system (e. Dec 11, 2023 · Once completed, you will get an MMSI number, and your radio will be successfully registered. You can get an MMSI number by applying for a ship station license through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Without it, other . Registration information is available to Coast Guard for use in a distress. Some radios will allow you to change the MMSI number yourself one or a couple of times Yacht Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numbers An MMSI number is the equivalent of an electronic call sign and it is required to operate Digital Selective Calling (DSC) radio or satellite communications equipment. MMSI (Including for craft associated with a parent ship) or handheld VHF DSC identity Jun 9, 2020 · Purchased a vhf handheld and my question: Is mmsi number registration of any benefit in waters outside USA (cruising Caribbean) Jan 29, 2025 · We've been muddling along without a valid MMSI for our local sailing. The AIS MMSI # field should start with digits 970, 972, or 974. Learn more here! Jul 1, 2024 · An MMSI number is issued as a unique identifier to all new ship radio and ship portable radio licences and is composed of a series of nine digits. Option 2: Transfer your MMSI registration to the new vessel owner at the time the vessel is sold, following the Transferring MMSI Registration procedures MMSI Registration and management If you have received a MMSI number from Sea Tow in the past, you can manage it by clicking here or by clicking "Login" in the top righthand side of the website. Find out how to update or register your MMSI number with Sea Tow or the U. 1 For vessels, the MMSI functions as the “phone number” that allows DSC direct dialing. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. U. With a registered VHF DSC-compatible radio using your unique MMSI number, your emergency situation is immediately transmitted with critical data to the US Coast Guard and other vessels in your vicinity. All vessels operating on the high seas require a Maritime Mobile Service Identity number to participate in the Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (GMDSS). Before proceeding, please note that you must have an assigned "Maritime Mobile Service Identity" (MMSI). If you change ownership of the vessel, you’ll need to transfer the MMSI number to the new owner. Confirm that own-ship MMSI has been deleted by switching on the radio. Therefore, each vessel needs only one ship station MMSI number, which can be programmed into all radio equipment on board. Learn more here! Aug 19, 2025 · Understand the importance of Maritime Mobile Service Identity numbers for DSC radios, how to register or transfer them, and steps to take if you sell your boat. The Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) is a unique 9-digit number assigned to your marine radio. A 9 digit number must be entered into your unit to activate the red button. The MMSI is assigned to a vessel, and the same MMSI is programmed into all shipboard equipment that transmits and receives digital signals, including VHF radio, medium and high frequency radios, AIS Oct 19, 2017 · BoatUS offers an easy online MMSI registration for $25 that makes obtaining an MMSI number simple, adds an extra layer of safety by partnering with the US Coast Guard to share information, and offers valuable boater benefits. Learn more here! A Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) is a nine-digit number that uniquely identifies ship stations, ship earth stations, coast stations, coast earth stations, and group calls. Aug 22, 2024 · Learn how to obtain an MMSI number for your vessel, including eligibility, requirements, and application process. Members. g. An MMSI is vital data point for both domestic and international emergency personnel. The MMSI is assigned to a vessel, and the same MMSI is programmed into all shipboard equipment that transmits and receives digital signals, including VHF radio, medium and high frequency radios The Mobile Maritime Safety Identity (MMSI) number is a nine-digit code that acts as a DSC self-identification number and is required in order to use the DSC capabilities of the radio. All ship MMSIs use the format M 1 I 2 D 3 X 4 X 5 X 6 X 7 X 8 X 9, where the first three digits represent the MID and where X is any number from 0 to 9. There are two kinds of MMSI numbers: Indi MMSI stands for Maritime Mobile Service Identity. You will need to show it to the Coast Guard if they inspect and ask. (Be sure to MMSI is a nine-digit number assigned to a marine radio & transfers your registration information to the U. This is provided by local government. Ships worldwide use unique identification numbers to ensure smooth tracking and communication. Mar 6, 2024 · Choose Registration Method: Once you’ve obtained your MMSI number, you can register it with the appropriate authorities. To receive your MMSI number INSTANTLY, click here to complete this form online! Alternatively you may print and complete the form below and return it via fax, regular mail or email to MMSI@BoatUS. Jun 21, 2023 · Option 1: Contact the manufacturer of each AIS and DSC-equipped radio on the vessel, and have its own-ship MMSI deleted. Power Squadron. Learn why you need an MMSI number for your digital selective calling (DSC) radio and how to obtain and update it. MMSI Registration and management If you have received a MMSI number from Sea Tow in the past, you can manage it by clicking here or by clicking "Login" in the top righthand side of the website. Power Squadron MMSI registration site. An AIS number and a unique call sign are also required. Find links to approved organizations, FCC, and ITU resources for different types of vessels and users. Alternatively, you may need to fill out a form and submit it via mail or in person. That number has info on YOU associated with it as well as the boat. It was recommended to me by the surveyor to register for an MMSI number to link to my VHF distress button. 3 series. Your boat needs to be entered into the MMSI register, after which you will receive a unique identifying number. If you have a marine radio with DSC capability, you must obtain a nine-digit maritime mobile service identity number, and have it programmed into the unit before you transmit. How do I register my AIS? See the Coast Guard’s AIS FAQ How do I register, encode, install, verify my AIS or, obtain or update an MMSI? 11. This fee will be waived for current BoatU. Discover tips for a successful application and essential documentation. Complete the form, making sure to select the option “Assign a new MMSI or MI number”. Required Fields. Each vessel requires only one MMSI number. Learn what a MMSI number is and how it works with DSC-VHF radios for emergency calls and GPS positioning. Cruisers & Sailing Forums > Engineering & Systems > Marine Electronics MMSI registration info change with purchase of boat « one fridge freezer or separate units | Linking older Raymarine through a multiplexer and wi-fi » Jan 21, 2019 · WHAT IS AN MMSI NUMBER? All boats operating on the high seas are assigned one nine-digit MMSI for all onboard equipment capable of transmitting and receiving digital signals-including EPIRBs, AIS transponders, DSC-capable VHFs, all INMARSAT satellite terminals, etc. It’s a nine-digit number, coded with information about the issuing government and location and the type of service (coast station, vessel, navigation aid, etc. ftxp7 rrdw o1wzgr qsuqs mleqfudas uld6g ixf9f cwdt so0xxh 4iae