Mmsi, Dsc, Epirb Id

[sailak]

I just installed an Icom 504A and will install the Garmin 640 tommorrow. I already have an registered EPIRB.

I've been googling but haven't found a good answer. Is the MMSI and EPIRB ID number the same? can I use the EPIRB ID# as the MMSI for the DSC radio?

Thanks

[SVPrairieRose]

No sir they are not the same. Your epirb id is associated with the unit you bought but your mmsi number is assigned to your radio license. In canada we get radio licenses throug industry canada and they assign you an mmsi, I do not know the processes for you in the USA. Hope this helps.

[sailingfool]

Originally Posted by SVPrairieRose

No sir they are not the same. Your epirb id is associated with the unit you bought but your mmsi number is assigned to your radio license. In canada we get radio licenses throug industry canada and they assign you an mmsi, I do not know the processes for you in the USA. Hope this helps.

practically speaking the US no longer have radio licenses for recreational boaters. You get your MMSI thru an group like BoatUS, it is assigned to the boat.

[fairbank56]

If you travel to a foreign port or communicate with a foreign station, you are required to have a station license and operators permit. In that case, you would get your MMSI from the FCC when you get your license's. EPIRB ID numbers are 15 digit, MMSI are 9 digit.

Eric

[SVAuspicious]

If you have any plan to sail outside the US, or live near an international border, you should get a station license for your boat and a restricted radio operators permit for you from the FCC. The MMSI will come with the station license.