How to get an MMSI for a boat in transit to the USA

General
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I’ve been trying to figure out how/when I can get an MMSI for our 550 which we will be bringing back to the US, where we will get her documented. The problem is that in order for the FCC to issue an MMSI, the boat has to be documented, and it won’t be documented until we hit the US. I need an MMSI for AIS. Here’s the answer to this quandry:

You can apply for USCG Documentation any time after the keel is laid. Once you apply you will get a US Documentation number, but the boat will not be documented until all the paperwork is done. Check with the USCG Documentation Center.

The boat will need a Ship’s station license from the FCC. It is good for 10 years. You can apply online and it takes just a few hours for it to be processed. This will give you a license for the VHF, AIS, and Radar. You will get a ships call sign and an MMSI if you request it. The license will be delivered as a pdf file.

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Hi Geoff,

As a Brit I don’t have any direct experience with the US process. However, I do know that Mike & Sue Pail who have a Vision 444 that they were commissioning when we were in Knysna had that issue. They write a blog called “On a new tack”.

I’m sure they solved the conundrum. They are a great couple and I’m sure they would share their experiences. I’ll see if I still have their contact details. Say hi from us if you make contact.

I guess there will also be many other US flagged Knysna owners who have navigated the process.

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Malcolm did ours before we left Knysna. The MMSI is issued by the registering authority that registers your radio station license and can be done in Knysna.