Information for radio operators

Competency in the use of radio transmitting equipment is required in aeronautical, amateur and maritime bands in New Zealand.

Aeronautical certificates and callsigns (ratings)

Radio transmissions in the aeronautical radio service are covered by the General User Radio Licence for Aeronautical Purposes.

If you would like to apply for an aeronautical certificate or a callsign, you must contact the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of New Zealand by email: info@caa.govt.nz or phone +64 4 560 9400.

Amateur certificates and callsigns

Amateur Radio Operators now no longer hold individual radio licences. Radio transmissions in the amateur radio service are now covered by the General User Radio Licence for Amateur Radio Operators, which requires an Operator’s certificate and a callsign.

Examinations are conducted by Approved Radio Examiners.  Further information may be obtained by contacting New Zealand Association of Radio Transmitters (NZART).

Maritime certificates and callsigns

Radio transmissions in the maritime radio service are covered by the General User Radio Licence for Maritime Purposes which requires a callsign.

Examinations for Radio Operator Certificates are conducted by Approved Radio Examiners. The various certificates are registered by the Ministry online as the examiner grants the certificate. 

Callsigns including MMSI are available from Approved Radio Examiners who can issue these online.

Once callsigns, MMSI or certificates are granted online by an Approved Radio Examiner they are available to be searched online in the Register of Radio Frequencies (SMART).

Viewing certificates

Certificates may also be viewed and printed online by examiners who have been trained in the use of the Ministry’s SMART system, or by clients using a personal client key and password.  If you don’t have your client key and password, contact us at free phone 0508 RSM INFO (776 463) or email info@rsm.govt.nz.