Getting SMART with certificates and callsigns

Planning is now underway by New Zealand's Radio Spectrum Management to complete another significant step in simplifying licensing within the aeronautical, amateur radio and maritime services.

During 2006 RSM intends to enhance SMART to provide for Approved Radio Examiners, who already conduct operator examinations, to also issue operator certificates and callsigns directly online.

In the case of the amateur radio service, examiners will be able to select an operator callsign for inclusion in the certificate . The present "Visiting Amateur" General User Licence (GURL) will be revised to incorporate both New Zealand amateurs and visiting foreign radio amateurs. Individual amateur operator licences will no longer be needed in New Zealand.

While Approved Radio Examiners may continue to charge for their services, there will be no fees payable to Radio Spectrum Management. Revocation of callsigns and certificates will remain the sole responsibility of RSM.

Repeaters and beacons operating in the three services will continue to be licensed individually, and require engineering certification to ensure their technical compatibility with other radio services.

In July 2005, annual fees for individual amateur operators were abolished. Similar provisions had already been implemented in earlier years in relation to ships and aircraft.

Further reports will be provided as the project progresses.

Contact for further information: wayne.wedderspoon@med.govt.nz

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