We offer convenient learning options for every boater. 

Choose from in-person, online, self-study or challenge exams 

and master VHF Radio communication.

• Our instructors will teach you the rules and usage of VHF radio in clear, simple lessons. Course materials included.
  

• Take an exam endorsed by Digital Selective Calling (DSC) to demonstrate your knowledge of maritime radio. Fulfill legal requirements. A final exam is included with every course.

• Choose how you want to learn: in-person, online, self-study or take the challenge exam.
  

Learn VHF Radio Basics

Ace Your Certification Exam

Study Your Way

Decide how you like to learn:

in-person, online, self-study, or with the challenge exam.

Sign up with CanBoat / NautiSavoir:

Create a free account on the CanBoat / NautiSavoir website and register for your course. Already a member? Log in with your account.

Dive into the material:

Study the comprehensive course material.

Get certified:

 Pass the DSC endorsement exam and get your ROC(M) license to be VHF radio certified.

Schedule & Duration:

Finish the course at your own pace within 60 days of registering.

Course Materials & Exam:

Get 24/7 access to course materials. Take the exam in-person at a CanBoat / NautiSavoir location or online via ZOOM or MS Teams.

Schedule & Duration:

Attend online sessions weekly for 2-3 hours. 8-10 hours for the course and an hour (1) for the test.

Course Materials & Exam:

Select your course material format: online, by mail or pick-up. Take your exam online or at nearby 

CanBoat / NautiSavoir locations.

Schedule & Duration:

Choose weekly evening classes or a full-day weekend course. 8-10 hours for the course and an hour (1) for the test.

Course Materials & Exam:

Get printed course materials and do a written exam at a CanBoat / NautiSavoir location at the end.

Do you already have the course material and want to jump straight to the exam? Sign up for the challenge course for an in-person exam. 

A CanBoat / NautiSavoir representative will reach you with the next steps.

Emergency Skills:

Phonetic Alphabet:

Learn how to use VHF radio in emergencies and send distress signals.

Learn the phonetic alphabet for clear radio talk in noisy places.

Daily Use Techniques:

Radio Operations:

Understand basic VHF radio operations like tuning and transmission.

Learn how to use and maintain VHF radios for reliable boating communication.

Choosing Frequencies:

Radio Terms:

Learn which VHF frequencies to use for talking in Canadian waters.

Get familiar with s terms used in marine radio chats.

Advanced Technologies:

Discover high-tech VHF radio features for safety and emergencies.

It's the Law. If your boat has a VHF marine radio, you need a ROC(M) license – whether you use the radio or not. 

Not having this license can result in significant fines.

Enrol in our easy VHF radio certification course. Meet legal requirements and stay safe while boating.

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Cell phones reach only the number you dial, when you have coverage. VHF is transmitted to every other radio, commercial and pleasure craft, in a 5 to 20 mile radius. Your chances of obtaining timely assistance are far greater when you use a VHF radio in emergencies.

DSC is Digital Selective Calling, a digital emergency calling feature available on most VHF radios when activated.

The ROC(M) is good for life. When you successfully complete the test you will receive a 90 day temporary certificate.

Instructors are CanBoat / NautiSavoir contracted instructors with some form of instructor/trainer certification/qualification with a ROC(M) with the DSC endorsement or a ROC(MC) or a General Operators certificate (GOC).

Because we are a not-for-profit organization, we don’t charge tax to our customers for educational courses.

Yes, However, a VHF operator’s certificate is not required in the U.S. but to date it appears that they have no trouble recognizing our ROC(M).

A complete course training manual, quizzes, simulations, and supplementary resources.

You can retry the exam after 24 hours. If you miss the exam you can get a new ticket to take the exam.

Yes, the course fees include the printing and mailing of the ROC(M) wallet card. When you pass your exam, you will receive a temporary certificate either from the instructor or by email. Your permanent card will be mailed to the mailing address you entered during registration.

No, you do not need to be a CanBoat / NautiSavoir member.

Our mission as a not-for-profit organization is to teach safe boating. The fees collected from our courses are reinvested in developing boating programs and education material for Canadian boaters.

View Our Membership FAQs

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