How to Train in Marine Radar

Radar training is required for all ships' officers.

If you are planning a career at sea, one of the requirements for a license as a ship's officer is an endorsement as a radar observer. The training takes two forms, one for inland operators (i.e., tow boat pilots and captains) and the other for ships' officers working in international waters. The training consists of a 40-hour course that includes training in how radar works, radar operation, radar screen image interpretation, coordinating radar display with electronic chart display, radar piloting and collision avoidance, and radar and the navigation rules.

Instructions

1. Find a school that is certified by the United States Coast Guard to teach the skills of a radar observer. A list is available on the website of the Coast Guard's National Maritime Center.

2. Ask the school if it offers the type of radar training required for your position or license, i.e., inland, for the tow boat industry, or unlimited radar observer for offshore or international sailing.

3. Attend the radar observer training course. This 40-hour course is usually spread over five days. At the end of the course, if you hold a Merchant Mariner Credential, present your completion certificate to the nearest Coast Guard Regional Examination Center for inclusion of the endorsement in your credential.

Resources

• National Maritime Center: Approved Courses