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Unbranded marine radios, notebook and sea chart on a bright yacht table

Exam preparation

Study materials for SRC, UBI and LRC

Learn questions, speak radio messages and practise operating sequences — covering what screen questions cannot teach.

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Retailer links: Links marked * lead to external shops. Keelwake currently receives no commission from them. Selection and order are independent of retailers.

First decide, then buy

Build the kit around the exam task.

Radio exams combine theory, language and equipment operation. The trainer covers questions and spaced repetition; practical preparation needs scripts, audio and access to an exam-like radio or simulator. Even the best book cannot replace speaking a full message aloud.

Practical selection

Each item has a clear purpose.

Choose materials that let you practise the required skill under exam conditions: chart work, knots or a complete paper session.

Example of SRC and UBI textbook
Example image

Foundation

SRC and UBI textbook

For system knowledge, procedures and reference

A combined book works well if you plan both VHF certificates. Look for current questions, practical sequences and English marine radio messages.

  • Clear split between theory and practice
  • Check the edition
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Example of Practice sheets and scripts
Example image

Exam format

Practice sheets and scripts

For translation, sequence and time pressure

Loose task sheets let you repeat messages without seeing the answer. Mark missing mandatory elements rather than isolated words.

  • Record messages aloud
  • Group errors by message element
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Example of Equipment simulation or course session
Example image

Practical

Equipment simulation or course session

For DSC menus and operating sequences

Radio menu systems differ. Ask which model your centre uses and schedule at least one session on that type.

  • Confirm the radio model early
  • Avoid learning clicks without meaning
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Links and editions checked: 2026-08-30. Retailer availability can change.

Keelwake Trainer

SBF Inland and Sea are free; SKS and FKN are available as complete courses.

Use the relevant Keelwake course for questions and repetition, then add spoken messages and real or simulated equipment operation.

SRC is not currently available in the Keelwake trainer. The certificate page explains the exam, distress-message recording and practical radio section.

Start learning

Before choosing materials

Check the exam format first.

The certificate overview explains requirements, exam sections and scoring. Use it to decide which material you actually need.

Open exam overview

FAQ

Before you order

Is a book enough for the radio exam?

No. It explains systems and procedures, but pronunciation, message order and equipment operation need active practice.

Can I prepare SRC and UBI together?

Yes, many foundations overlap. Keep marine and inland procedures distinct so channels, message formats and rules do not become mixed.