Modify a licence

It is important to apply for a licence modification if any of the parameters on the licence change. Licence holders will be liable for an infringement if transmissions do not comply with the specific parameters as set out on the licence.

The process for modifying a licence is dependant on the licence type. Radio licences can be modified online, whereas spectrum licences require a formal notice to be registered as prescribed in Schedule 7 of the Radiocommunications Regulations.

For more detailed instructions on creating an application to modify radio licences please see our SMART user guide.

Modification of technical parameters

Modifications to the technical parameters of a radio licence such as the location, output power or antenna polarisation requires engineering certification, and result in a new licence being issued.

As with a new licence application the applicant has a choice of RSM engineering or external engineering for the licence modification work. RSM engineering fees. The applicant should consult the external engineer for their fees and availability before submitting an application.

Holders of Point to Multipoint licences should note that modification requests for outstations will require modification of all the associated licences.

Modification to a spectrum licence such as the location, output power, antenna horizontal radiation pattern, receive coverage locations or date amendment require engineering certification. Modification to spectrum licences in Crown management rights should be presented by way of “Form 8 Notice of modification of spectrum licence” to RSM in the first instance to ensure the modification(s) meet with current policy criteria.

Modification of non-technical parameters

Modifications of amateur callsigns should be directed to http://www.nzart.org.nz/nzart/.

Modifications of ship callsigns should be directed to http://www.nzcoastguard.org.nz/.

How to apply for a Radio Licence modification?

The quickest way to modify a radio licence is to logon to SMART, then select “Licence Application”/”Create Licence Application”. Select "Modify Existing Licence" followed by "Select Licence" and then enter licence number and fill out the new technical parameters.

The applicant will be notified via email when the engineering certification has been completed. Once engineering fees have been paid a new licence will be granted and be available for viewing on the Register of Radio Frequencies.  For detailed assistance on completing the online steps refer to our guide.

If you have never used SMART, please contact us on 0508 RSM INFO (0508 776 463) to get set up with a new client account. You will then need to activate your account to enable you to logon to SMART.

How to apply for a Spectrum Licence Modification?

Modification of spectrum licence(s) requires a Form 8 Notice of modification of spectrum licence, to be lodged with the Registrar of Radio Frequencies. The Form can be accessed at Radiocommunications Regulations 2001 and must be submitted to the Registrar of Radio Frequencies in duplicate (two originals). Both originals must be signed by the relevant authority(ies) as outlined in the conditions of the licence and then attested by a witness. The modification will come into effect once the Form has been registered. The licence holder (Rightholder) will be notified of the modification in writing. The Form 4 Notice of modification of power floor level or Form 5 Notice of modification of protection limit or Form 6 Notice of modification of adjacent frequencies emission limits may also be lodged with the Register of Radio Frequencies where applicable modification applies.