Marine VHF Radio Call Sign Display — Transport Canada
Industry Canada Radiocommunication Regulations — Marine VHF · Federal — Canada
§Source summary
Radiocommunication Act + Canada Shipping Act 2001 — Industry Canada Radiocommunication Regulations — Marine VHF
Vessels equipped with VHF radiotelephone equipment may need their radio call sign or MMSI number available to the operator at the radio station. Commercial vessels generally display the call sign on the vessel exterior.
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If your vessel has a VHF radio, your call sign or MMSI number should be accessible at the radio — typically a label on the radio or beside it. Commercial vessels must also display the call sign on the hull. It is the radio equivalent of a licence plate.
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Call sign or MMSI at VHF radio station
Label on or immediately beside the VHF radio
Commercial vessels: call sign on vessel exterior
MMSI programmed into DSC — check annually
Ship Station Licence kept aboard with call sign listed
Display: vessel name and call sign on VHF face recommended
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Boat Registration Numbers — PCL Decals
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📚Sources & Authority
Use the linked primary sources to confirm the current conditions for your specific asset or move. This page is a plain-language guide, not an approval or permit.
🏛 Official Government Sources
Pleasure Craft Licensing — Transport Canada
Transport Canada · March 2026
Official Transport Canada page for Pleasure Craft Licensing. Covers who needs a PCL, how to apply, number display requirements, and renewal.
Small Vessel Regulations — SOR/2010-91
Justice Laws Canada · March 2026
The Small Vessel Regulations define marking requirements for pleasure craft including PCL number size (75mm minimum), placement (both sides of bow), and colour contrast.
Canada Shipping Act, 2001
Justice Laws Canada · March 2026
The Canada Shipping Act is the federal legislation governing all vessel registration, safety, and compliance in Canadian waters.
🏢 Industry Organizations
All sources are official government publications or recognized industry authorities. Links verified March 2026. If you find a broken link, let us know.
See Also — Related Regulations
Small Vessel Regulations (SOR/2010-91)
Vessel Name & Port of Registry Markings — Canada Shipping Act
Small Vessel Regulations (SOR/2010-91)
Pleasure Craft Licence Number Display — SOR/2010-91 (75mm min)
SOR/2010-91 + Canada Shipping Act 2001
Transport Canada Life-Saving Equipment Labels — Marine Safety
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Shop Vessel Radio ID LabelsOr call (289) 228-7021Regulation Quick Facts
- Regulation
- Radiocommunication Act + Canada Shipping Act 2001
- Jurisdiction
- 🇨🇦 Federal — Canada
- Category
- Marine & Boating Law
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