Virtual VHF Course?

ShadowDiver · 21 March 2021, 06:12

Wasn't sure where to post this question as there is not a Training Forum. Does anyone know if it is possible o do the VHF course and gain a license virtually? Also, would I need a license before I am able to register a DSC handheld VHF

Thank you for your help.

beamishken · 21 March 2021, 07:56

Quote:

Originally Posted by ShadowDiver

Wasn't sure where to post this question as there is not a Training Forum. Does anyone know if it is possible o do the VHF course and gain a license virtually? Also, would I need a license before I am able to register a DSC handheld VHF

Thank you for your help.

Not sure about the virtual course but you dont need an src to obtain a ships licence to register the dsc function.

ShadowDiver · 21 March 2021, 08:55

Thank you beamishken, after your answer, I did some further research on the Ofcom website (what deep joy that was, NOT)and have registered myself. Eventually found the correct form and it is all filled in awaiting the delivery of my new radio today so I can enter the final details.

Thank you for your help

paulbrown22 · 21 March 2021, 10:18

Technically there are two parts to the VHF licensing requirements - the VHF SRC qualification/licence (more like a driver's licence for you, so you know how to operate a marine VHF DSC radio), and the appropriate Ofcom licence for the hardware itself (which is free online, and you can do at any time, without any reference to the former).

Technically without the VHF SRC qualification/licence you shouldn't use the radio to transmit in a non-emergency situation. You can do the VHF SRC training as an online offering in the RYA's e-Learning portal, but the exam can only be done face to face at a centre. I think some centres are still offering one on one exams during COVID, as for certain people it will form part of their professional requirements for a job, but assuming this is for leisure, it's probably a case of wait until restrictions are lifted for a VHF SRC exam.

ShadowDiver · 21 March 2021, 10:38

Thank you Paul, Ofcom site was not easy to navigate but got there in the end. There are a few local schools up here in North Norfolk so will do the course when I can.

Steve509926 · 21 March 2021, 15:41

Hi, i have been informed that the RYA exam will not be taking place until mid May at the earliest.
If I was you, I would sign up to do an online course then apply to do the exam on May.
Try Seavoice training for an online course, £65 when I did it.
https://www.seavoice-training.co.uk/

ShadowDiver · 21 March 2021, 16:10

Quote:

Originally Posted by Steve509926

Hi, i have been informed that the RYA exam will not be taking place until mid May at the earliest.
If I was you, I would sign up to do an online course then apply to do the exam on May.
Try Seavoice training for an online course, £65 when I did it.
https://www.seavoice-training.co.uk/

Thanks Steve, that is really helpful. I will get on their website later. Cheers

HDAV · 21 March 2021, 16:55

You can do a “virtual” course but a “virtual” exam at the moment at least last year exams for commercial ops were being done as there are other routes.

You can buy the book for £12 perhaps start there

ShadowDiver · 21 March 2021, 17:13

Thanks HDAV

mikew4 · 21 March 2021, 19:25

I did mine a few years ago by self study, paying for a private 1:1 session for a recap and then the exam. All done in an evening during the week for a very reasonable price. Beat the cr*p out of taking a full day otherwise.

Did same with RYA day skipper but all self study in an afternoon and never did exam which is not needed to get the qual. Bottom line is that the practical tests the theory hence why theory exam not mandatory. Saved 5 days in classroom.

Steve509926 · 21 March 2021, 20:21

The online course is provided by RYA via numerous companies/suppliers, all will differ in price, but it is the same online course. It should include the RYA booklet in the price either ebook or hard copy. Most companies will give you 12 months access to the online course, however some will give you longer due to Covid. The advantage of the online course is it allows you to gain and learn at you own pace and at home, but with the backup of a tutor either online or on the phone. At the end of the course there is a "mock" which basically means you either should apply for the "classroom" exam or not.
Some companies will give a couple of hours recap in the classroom prior to the "exam".
Best to check online, and give the course supplier a call before you buy.

HDAV · 21 March 2021, 23:27

BTW that should say “ not a virtual exam at the moment” above

ShadowDiver · 22 March 2021, 16:34

I had a hunt around yesterday for an online course. Big variation in prices. Picked 1, the website payment wasn't working, chose another, same thing. Then I found www.sailtrain.org.uk. £59 for the course, including the printed book that they are sending out today for free. Once I had paid, the system said that I would receive my login details and password in 24 hours. Fair enough, I thought, it is a Sunday evening. Within minutes I received an email from Peter Dance with the necessary details. Brilliant service and please I found them. Once exams start up again I will sit it up here in Norfolk. Unless I have an excuse to go to Essex, in which case I would be more than happy to do the exam with Sailtrain. Great service guys.