How do I register for AIS?
AIS devices are not registered, but must be operated with an official 9-digit Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number assigned to the vessel and its owner. To learn about, obtain, transfer or update one see our MMSI page.
Is AIS a legal requirement?
The regulation requires AIS to be fitted aboard all ships of 300 gross tonnage and upwards engaged on international voyages, cargo ships of 500 gross tonnage and upwards not engaged on international voyages and all passenger ships irrespective of size. The requirement became effective for all ships by 31 December 2004.
Does AIS require a subscription?
4. Can I start picking up the AIS signals? As AIS receivers do not require a license in most countries and the VHF signal is unencrypted, almost anybody can invest in a base station and begin monitoring shipping traffic within range.
What boats are required to have AIS?
The following vessels are required to install and use a Class A AIS transponder: All commercial vessels of 65 feet or more in length (except as defined below) Towing vessels of 26 feet or more in length and more than 600 horsepower. Vessels certificated to carry more than 150 passengers.
Do sailboats need AIS?
The answer for most recreational boaters is maybe. No, you don’t have to have AIS, just like most boaters aren’t required to have radar or an EPIRB. Heck, many recreational boaters ply inland lakes, bays, and rivers in areas where commercial traffic isn’t too much of an issue in the first place.
Are commercial vessels required to have AIS?
65 (1) Every vessel of 150 gross tonnage or more that is carrying more than 12 passengers and engaged on an international voyage shall be fitted with an Automatic Identification System (AIS) Class A.
How do I get a MMSI number in South Africa?
Licensing Before a VHF marine radio may be purchased and/or used a ship station radio license is to be obtained from ICASA. Holders of the SRC certificate will be issued an MMSI number, (nine digit number beginning with 601 which indicates a South African vessel), together with the license.
Do I need an MMSI number?
When installed in your DSC-VHF radio, MMSI numbers can be used by the U.S. Coast Guard for search and rescue purposes within Rescue21 service areas. If you plan to operate on International waters outside the United States, you must get your MMSI number through the FCC.
What is MMSI used for?
A MMSI number (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) is a nine-digit number that identifies your boat for marine traffic monitoring systems. The unique identifier facilitates VHF communications, customs and border security, emergency response, and commercial call tracking and billing.
How long does it take to get an AIS number?
Registering a MMSI license, AIS number and getting you a call sign, only takes 24 hours or less. This is from the moment you have provided us with the requested information. In most cases you will receive your radio license at the same day.
How much does it cost to take an AIS course?
Below is the current schedule for AIS online and onsite training courses. All courses are $750.00 unless otherwise noted. Note: The AAAM/AIS office is open Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm CST.
How is the Automatic Identification System ( AIS ) used?
Automatic Identification System (AIS) The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a broadcast transponder system operating in the VHF maritime mobile band. AIS transponder equipment is used on ships and aids to navigation (AtoNs), by Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) and by Maritime Competent Authorities.
How much does it cost to get a Polish AIS number?
The costs for the Polish MMSI radio license and AIS number are € 350,-. In combination with a Polish boat registration, the price remains the same. The Gibraltar MMSI radio license and AIS number are only available when making a request for the Gibraltar boat registration.