The MMSI number (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) is a unique nine-digit number for identifying a ship. Please note: The AIS system is using the MMSI, not the IMO number, to identify a vessel. The IMO number is part of the static AIS information provided by the vessels crew and can be transmitted additionally.
How do I find my boat MMSI number?
A Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) is a 9-digit number used to identify a ship radio. 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).
What does a MMSI number do?
Maritime Mobile Service Identities (MMSIs) are nine digit numbers used by maritime digital selective calling (DSC), automatic identification systems (AIS) and certain other equipment to uniquely identify a ship or a coast radio station.
Do I need an MMSI number?
The MMSI # is required for ALL AIS transponders to transmit your identity over the air. If you are a US documented or registered vessel and are required to have MMSI # then you are also required to have an FCC Ship Station License & Restricted Radio Operators Permit.
How can I get MMSI?
You are required to obtain a Ship’s Station License from the FCC and they will provide an MMSI number that is valid for international cruising. To obtain a Ship’s Station License from the FCC, please visit the Ship Radio Stations page or call 877-480-3201.
Do military ships use AIS?
U.S. Navy ships, and other government vessels, are not required to use AIS, the maritime navigation safety communications system, standardized by the International Telecommunication Union and adopted by the International Maritime Organization.
How much does a MMSI number cost?
MMSI numbers are free for BoatUS Members or $25 for non-Members.
How long does it take to get an MMSI number?
Once you have completed the license application, it takes about 2 days for the FCC to issue the license. Your license will include a call sign and MMSI for your vessel.
What are the three first digits in a ship’s MMSI indicating?
A MMSI number contains 9 digits. Part of the MMSI is a country code. These digits are called the Maritime Identification Digits (MID). The MID is typically a three digit code between 200 and 799….Structure of a MMSI number.
| Type of MMSI number | Structure of the number |
|---|---|
| Navigation aids | 9192M3I4D5X6X7X8X9 |
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The Nation’s flagships. Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers are the biggest warships ever built for the Royal Navy – and the most advanced. They’re our nation’s flagships, and will be for the next 50 years, as they embark on our most vital global deployments.
How do I get an MMSI number for my Boat?
To be seen on Internet AIS systems you must have a valid MMSI number for your boat. In the US you can obtain an MMSI in minutes by visiting the USCG approved agent and using their online form. In the UK you can get one for free by visiting Ofcom MMSI.
How do you test a Coast Guard MMSI number?
Instead, you may run a test call to the nationwide Coast Guard MMSI number, 003669999. Enter this number into your radio’s calling memory and select the “Test Call” option from the radio’s list of individual DSC calls, then press the “call” or “enter” key.
What is the purpose of the MMSI registration?
BoatUS is responsible for relaying the MMSI registration information to the U.S. Coast Guard for search and rescue purposes. MMSI numbers are free for BoatUS Members or $25 for non-Members.
How much does it cost to get an MMSI number?
MMSI numbers are free for BoatUS Members or $25 for non-Members. BoatUS has been authorized by both the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the U.S. Coast Guard to assign MMSI numbers only to vessels that meet the following criteria:
