a) ships' radio licences will be issued for the life of the vessel, removing the requirement for radio users to purchase a licence each year. The licence will remain valid for as long as the licence details remain correct or until such time as the licence is either revoked by Ofcom or surrendered by the licensee. Such licences will not be transferable upon the sale of the vessel.

b) ships' portable radio licences will be issued and be valid as long as the licence details remain correct or until such time as the licence is revoked by Ofcom. Such licences shall not be transferable upon the sale of the radio equipment.

c) a web-based licensing service will be provided as an alternative to the postal service.

d) electronic licences will be issued online, free of charge. The licensee will then print a hard copy of the licence.

e) licensees will be required to confirm their licence details at least once every 10 years.

f) A copy of the licence must be kept on board the vessel but the licence disc need no longer be displayed.

Ofcom will continue to make paper licences available for applicants who do not have access to, or prefer not to use, the Internet but an administrative fee may be charges for this service.

7 January 2006

OFCOM Maritime Licences