You require a call sign to operate a marine VHF or SSB radio.

Your individual call sign is registered on a national database, the details of which are made solely to some approved Search & Rescue agencies. This information is invaluable in the event of a vessel getting into an emergency situation.

• Call signs are issued using only the next unallocated number in sequence
  
  
• Fixed VHF sets use ZMY as a prefix and Portable or Handheld VHF sets use ZMP as a prefix
  
  
• People wanting one call sign for VHF and SSB together should refer to the MoC – Radio Frequency Service
  
  
• People wanting one call for their VHF Fixed and their Portable together, use the prefix ZMY
  
  
• The call sign preferably stays with the boat or set, NOT with the person

To Register for a call sign visit www.cbes.org.nz. Any updates or changes to your call sign details (ie. Change of your contact details, boat details, etc.) can be made by phoning the Coastguard Boating Education Service on 0800 40 80 90 during normal office hours.

Please note:  The registration of a call sign does not constitute a radio operators licence, or membership of Coastguard.