Changes to the UK GMDSS training and certification process

Eda Zenic -

The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency published a Marine Information Note (MIN 716 (M+F)), introducing changes to the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) process in the UK. These changes will be implemented gradually, with full responsibility transitioning to the MCA by May 13, 2025. The new system aims to modernize and streamline the approval and certification process for GMDSS training while maintaining high standards.

Key Changes:

  1. Transition from AMERC to MCA:
    Currently, AMERC (the Association of Marine Electronic and Radio Colleges) manages GMDSS course approvals, examiner provision, and certificate issuance on behalf of the MCA. This arrangement will continue until May 12, 2025.
    After that date:
    • The MCA will take over responsibility for approving GMDSS courses.
    • Training centres will still conduct examinations.
    • Certificates and endorsements will be issued directly by the MCA, integrating the process to reduce complexity and improve efficiency.
  2. Impact on Training Centres:
    • No Major Course Changes: The structure of existing GMDSS and Radio Operator courses remains unchanged. However, a syllabus review is underway to align training with current maritime practices.
    • Documentation Requirements: By March 31, 2025, training centres must submit their Quality Management System, examination procedures, sample course completion certificates, and CVs for all assessors and examiners to the MCA. This ensures compliance with updated requirements.
    • Re-Approval Needed: Centres approved by AMERC will retain their approval until it expires, after which they must reapply to the MCA.
    • Independent Examiners: As per MCA guidelines, examiners and assessors must be independent, and the MCA must be notified of the examiners a centre plans to use.
  3. For Candidates:
    • Candidates who pass the GMDSS course and exam will receive a Course Completion Certificate from their training centre.
    • If a candidate fails, the centre may issue a Certificate of Attendance to allow one resit within two weeks.
    • To obtain a GMDSS Certificate and/or Endorsement, candidates will apply directly to the MCA by submitting required evidence and the updated application form MSF 4354.
    • The new process is designed to be cost-neutral for candidates and will streamline the issuance of certificates and endorsements.
  4. Support and Contact:
    • Training centres with questions about the approval process can contact the MCA Exams team via exams@mcga.gov.uk.
    • Further information is available through the UK Seafarers Training and Certification Branch of the MCA, located in Southampton.

This guidance is advisory and should be read alongside related notices, including MSN 1864, MSN 1865, and MSN 1903. Annex A is part of this MIN. It contains a template for the Short Course Instructor/Assessor CV, detailing the required qualifications, experience, and personal certification to act as an instructor or assessor. It remains valid until May 31, 2026, and further updates will be provided as the changes take effect.

All regulations can be found at legislation.gov.uk