How to Get an MMSI Number

Co-authored by Jennifer Mueller, JD

Last Updated: December 28, 2023 References

If you're a US boater and you’re travelling to a foreign port or you’re required by law to have a radio on your vessel, you need an MMSI number. A Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) is a 9-digit number used to identify a ship via radio. You can get an MMSI number by applying for a ship station license through the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). However, you may still want an MMSI even if you aren’t legally required to have an FCC license, since an MMSI allows you to make emergency calls from your boat. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about obtaining an MMSI.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Getting a Voluntary MMSI

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1
Confirm that you’re not required to obtain a ship station license. If you’re a recreational boater and aren’t planning on visiting a foreign port, you don't need to get a ship station license from the FCC. You're allowed to travel in international waters without a ship station license. However, you won't be able to dock at or communicate with a foreign port.^{[1]
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Independent U.S. government agency responsible for regulating radio, television, and satellite, and phone communications

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- If you boat in an area close to foreign ports, such as off the tip of Florida, it may be a good idea to go ahead and get a ship station license. You never know who might be able to come to your aid if you ever get in trouble out on the water.
2
Identify an approved boat owners' organization that assigns MMSI numbers. The FCC and US Coast Guard authorize organizations to assign domestic MMSI numbers. The application process is relatively simple and you’ll receive an MMSI number immediately. As of 2019, authorized organizations include:^{[2]
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- Boat US: https://www.boatus.com/MMSI/MMSI/Home
- US Power Squadron: https://www.usps.org/php/mmsi_new
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3
Join the organization if necessary. The boating organization you use may require you to become a member before it will assign you an MMSI. Others, such as Boat US, assign MMSI numbers to non-members for a fee. However, if you're a member of the organization, you can get your MMSI number for free, as well as having access to other organization resources.^{[3]
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- Each organization has various membership levels. Annual dues range from $25 to $175. Perks of membership may include tow service or other assistance if you run into problems while boating.
- To join, look for a button or link on the organization's home page. You’ll need to provide your name, contact information, your boat’s specifications, and payment information.
Tip: Even if membership isn't required, the lowest membership level may get you additional benefits for the same price you would pay as a non-member for an MMSI alone.
4
Fill out the registration form. Head to the organization’s MMSI main page and find the link to start a new application. You’ll need to enter your name and contact information, boat specifications, radio specifications, and vessel registration number.^{[4]
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- You'll also need to provide the name and phone number of at least one emergency contact.
Immediately after you submit your application, a confirmation page will appear with your new MMSI number. You may also receive this information through a confirmation email. Print at least 2 copies, one for your boat and one for your home records.
6
Program your MMSI number into your radio. Programming instructions vary by radio, so check your product’s user manual. Read the directions carefully and enter your MMSI number precisely. Most radios can only be programmed with an MMSI number once.^{[5]
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- If you make a mistake, you may have to send your radio back to the manufacturer to get it cleared.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Applying for an FCC License Online

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1
Request your FCC Registration Number (FRN). Applying for a ship station license online is easier than doing so through the mail and your application will be processed more quickly. Go to https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do to get started.^{[6]
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- After you create your account, you'll receive your FRN. You'll need this number to apply for an MMSI.
Tip: Even if you decide to apply for an MMSI by mailing in a paper application, you'll still have to go online to create an FRN.
2
Complete a new license application. Go to https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsEntry/licManager/login.jsp and enter your FRN and the password you created when you set up your online account. You'll then be able to start a new license application or manage existing ones.^{[7]
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- Once you click submit to log in, click the "Apply for a New License" tab to start a new online license application.
3
Choose the correct license type for your boat. If you intend to dock at or communicate with foreign ports, choose "SB-Ship" from the drop-down menu. If you're a domestic boat owner and want a voluntary license, choose "SA-Ship."
- While you can get a voluntary MMSI through the FCC, it will be cheaper and easier to go through an authorized boating organization if you won't be near any foreign ports.
4
Complete your ship station license application. Once you open the online application, enter information about yourself, including identification and contact information. You'll also need to provide information about your boat specifications and documentation.
- You'll have the opportunity to review your application before you submit it. Double-check everything you've entered and make sure it's correct. Mistakes could delay your application.
5
Pay the application and regulatory fees. The Universal Licensing System (ULS) will calculate your fees for you based on the information you provided in your application. You can pay your fees online with a major credit or debit card, or by initiating an electronic wire transfer of funds directly from any US bank account.^{[8]
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- As of September 2018, the FCC no longer accepts checks or money orders for payment of fees. If you don't want to submit your payment information over the internet, you can fill out Form 159 and mail it in with credit card or wire transfer information. Form 159 is available at https://www.fcc.gov/licensing-databases/forms. It must be received within 10 days of the date you file your application.
- Your license is valid for 10 years. To renew your license, you'll have to provide the same information you did with your initial application and pay another fee.
6
Wait to receive your license and MMSI. Your license and MMSI will be delivered to you electronically. Typically, you can expect to wait at least 10 days after submission of your application. If there is a high volume of applications, it may take longer.^{[9]
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Federal Communications Commission
Independent U.S. government agency responsible for regulating radio, television, and satellite, and phone communications

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- If you provided a valid email address, the FCC will email your license and MMSI to you when your application is processed. You can also access your license and MMSI by logging onto your FCC account with your FSN and password.
- You can also check the status of your application at https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/ApplicationSearch/searchAppl.jsp.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Mailing Your License Application

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1
Get a FCC Registration Number (FRN) if you don't already have one. Go to https://apps.fcc.gov/cores/userLogin.do to apply for an FRN. You'll need to include your FRN on your application for a ship station license.^{[10]
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Federal Communications Commission
Independent U.S. government agency responsible for regulating radio, television, and satellite, and phone communications

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- Provide information about yourself and your boat. Your FRN will be issued immediately after you submit your information. There is no charge for an FRN. Copy it and keep it in a safe place so you'll be able to access it when you complete your form.
2
Download Form 605 from the FCC forms database. Go to https://www.fcc.gov/wireless/support/fcc-form-605 to get a copy of the licensing application. You'll need this form to apply for a ship station license if you want to mail in a paper form.
- If you don't have reliable internet access or the means to print the form, contact the FCC Licensing Support Center at 877-480-3201 to have a blank form mailed to you.
3
Fill out your application with information about yourself and your boat. On Form 605, you must enter your FRN, legal name, and contact information. You'll also need to include your boat's specifications and documentation information.^{[11]
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Federal Communications Commission
Independent U.S. government agency responsible for regulating radio, television, and satellite, and phone communications

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- The application includes instructions for providing the correct information. Read the instructions carefully and make sure you understand them. Incorrect or inaccurate information could delay your application.
The FCC only accepts payment through major credit card or wire transfer from a US bank account. You can go online and pay your fee (even though you're mailing your paper application), or you can download Form 159 and fill it out with your payment information.^{[12]
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5
Mail your completed forms to the FCC. Double-check your forms for accuracy and completeness, then make a copy of them for your records. Send the originals to Federal Communications Commission, PO Box 979097, St. Louis, MO 63197-9000.^{[13]
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Federal Communications Commission
Independent U.S. government agency responsible for regulating radio, television, and satellite, and phone communications

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- You can also have your forms hand-delivered by courier to US Bank, Attn: FCC Government Lockbox #979097, SL-MO-C2-GL, 1005 Convention Plaza, St. Louis, MO 63101.
6
Wait to receive your license. Your license and MMSI will be delivered to you electronically. Expect it to take at least 10 days for your application to be processed after it is received. If you provided a valid email address, your license and MMSI will be emailed to you.^{[14]
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Trustworthy Source

Federal Communications Commission
Independent U.S. government agency responsible for regulating radio, television, and satellite, and phone communications

Go to source}
- You aren't required to provide an email address. You can also access your form by logging onto your FCC account online using your FRN and the password you created when you opened your account.
Tip: If you want to check the status of your license application, visit https://wireless2.fcc.gov/UlsApp/ApplicationSearch/searchAppl.jsp.

Community Q&A

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Question

I bought a used radio with an MMSI number already entered. Can I use that number?

Aloha27

Community Answer

No, you cannot. It is a unique number issued to the previous owner. In most cases, you will have to send the unit to the manufacturer in order to be able to program your own number.

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If I am a recreational boater 22' in US only, will I be required to obtain an MMSI to communicate on the VHF to coast guard and other boaters?

C Langl

Community Answer

If you are a recreational boater in the US, you will not need an MMSI or a radio. This is only the case if you aren't travelling on international or commercial waters. The Great Lakes for example, are considered "commercial" so you would need an MMSI and a radio.

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I am a US citizen. I own a boat in Panama. It is registered in Panama. I plan to sail it internationally. I have a Panama radio license but no MMSI. Panama does not offer MMSI registration for yachts.

Snakey006550

Top Answerer

As a U.S. citizen with a Panama-registered yacht, you can get an MMSI number by applying through the FCC for a Ship Station License, which includes an MMSI. Indicate that you need an MMSI during the application process. Alternatively, contact the Panamanian maritime authority to inquire about getting an MMSI through them. Comply with both U.S. and Panamanian regulations when operating internationally. Consulting maritime authorities or an attorney can help identify the best option.

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This article discusses how to get an MMSI number for US registered or documented vessels. If you live in another country, the process may be different.

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