Need VHF license to check in to Bahamas ?

[Bill Dietrich]

Heard recently that the Bahamas might have started checking for Ship's Radio Station license and Restricted RadioTelephone Operator's licenses when checking in to the Bahamas from the USA with only a VHF radio on board. Is this true ? Do they do this when checking in at West End ? What are the penalties if you don't have the licenses ?

Thanks,

Bill Dietrich

[Noontide]

Bill

We have never been checked but carry them regardless. The Operators license is a life long one and the station license last for a long while. They are both easy to get and not outragously expensive. Last I heard you can get them both online.

[DrRalph]

In fifteen years I've never heard of anyone being checked...

[Bill Dietrich]

Supposedly they just started asking, so if anyone has checked into the country in the last 3 months, I'd like to know of you were or were not asked for the licenses.

They're NOT cheap, in my opinion. $200 every 10 years for Ship's, $55 or $75 for lifetime for RRTO. A fair chunk of change.

Thanks,

Bill

[Alan Brown]

Bill,
I don"t recall my vhf license costing me much at all. It was such a small cost it was a "no brainer". Besides, you're supposed to have one anyway.
Alan

[CaptJohn]

The license is required under US law and international treaty, as the US is part of the ITU. Simple answer, get the required ship's license and operator's permit or license..and have fun in Abaco!

[Rag Top]

Any information on how to get one would be appreciated.

Thanks Dave

[Noontide]

Dave,

The FCC website, http://wireless.fcc.gov/marine/fctsht14.html#SEC4
indicates the following:

TO OBTAIN A SHIP RADIO STATION LICENSE?

Obtain FCC Forms 159 and 605 (see Section VI) and file them with the FCC. The FCC will mail the license to you and it will be valid for ten years. Don't forget to sign and date your application and include any applicable fees, otherwise it may be returned.

TO OBTAIN A RESTRICTED RADIOTELEPHONE OPERATOR PERMIT?

Obtain FCC Form 159 and 605 (see Section VI) and file it with the FCC. You do not need to take a test to obtain this permit. The FCC will mail the permit to you and it will be valid for your lifetime. Don't forget to sign and date your application and include any applicable fees, otherwise it may be returned.

When I did it years ago I think I did it via fax but I have a feeling you could probably do it via the internet at the same website.

Jaime

[John Sporck]

The entire process can be done online via www.firstgov.gov (http://www.firstgov.gov). First you need to register for an FRN (FCC Registration Number). Then do a search for 605 and it will bring you to the online application screen.

[Rag Top]

Thanks Jaime and John for the information. I will apply on line. It looks like the fees are $205 for the VHF License. Being a pilot I have a restricted radio license.
DAVE

[Bill Dietrich]

I checked-in at West End in early Feb 2005, and was not asked any questions about radio or radio licenses of any type.

Bill

[Tai Tai]

I wouldn't assume that you won't be asked for the licenses. Why risk being denied entry or ending up with a hassle? After all, by the time you get to your point of entry you will have spent a lot more that the cost of the licenses just on a single trip.

[SallyandKevin]

I've read that a radio license no longer is required in the U.S. and wonder if anyone knows the current situation in The Bahamas (2008)?

[marc]

with the economy and the price of fuel in the bahamas the last thing the govt. is going to do is to give tourists a hard time over radio licenses.

[nile]

Why don't peole want to comply with international regulations? All the boats in the world carry radio station licences, all operators in the world carry radio operator licences (most of the time obtained after a tough exam ) and every international traveler in the world carries a passport with him. The USCG check radio documentation on foreign boats and just try to enter the US without a passport and you go to jail so no excuse to be different.

[islandgator]

I don't think anyone is trying to circumvent any laws. I have been traveling to the Bahamas, by boat, for 40 years and have never heard of licensing moreover being asked by Customs to produce one.

[nile]

Here is the link to the CFR Title 47 which deals with rules. Click on 80-13 to read the rules regarding licencing of boats
http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_07/47cfr80_07.html