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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ham-maritime-international-waters

When may you use your amateur license in international waters?

You may operate from a U.S.-documented vessel with the master's permission.

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  1. On a U.S.-documented vessel with the master's permission ✔
  2. Only during maritime emergencies
  3. Only with special FCC authorization

Why: Amateur operation is allowed from a U.S.-documented vessel in international waters when the vessel's master permits it. A special FCC maritime authorization is not required.

Huh, didn't know that: Permission comes from the vessel's master, not simply from owning the radio.

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Why did the ham take a radio to sea? To catch some carrier waves.
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References

Answer: On a U.S.-documented vessel with the master's permission. Amateur operation is allowed from a U.S.-documented vessel in international waters when the vessel's master permits it. A special FCC maritime authorization is not required.

  1. 2026-2030 Technician Class Question Pool ncvec.org/downloads/2026-2030%20Technician%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%20Public%20Release%20Feb%2019%202026.pdf
    You may operate from a US-documented vessel with the master's permission
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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