Examination Practice Questions And

Coast Guard Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) Maintainer Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which frequency band is primarily used for distress and safety

communications in the GMDSS?

• VHF 156–162 MHz
• MF/HF 2–22 MHz
• UHF 300–500 MHz
• LF 30–300 kHz

Rationale: MF/HF frequencies cover long-range distress communications

and are part of GMDSS mandatory carriage for sea areas B, C, and D. 1 / 4

• What is the primary function of a GMDSS maintainer?
• Operate shipboard radios during emergencies
• Ensure all GMDSS equipment is properly maintained and

operational

• Direct rescue operations
• Issue weather warnings

Rationale: Maintainers are responsible for testing, inspecting, and

repairing GMDSS equipment to ensure functionality.

• Which sea area requires VHF DSC coverage only?
• Sea Area B
• Sea Area C
• Sea Area A1
• Sea Area A3

Rationale: Sea Area A1 covers VHF DSC coverage typically within 20–30

nautical miles of shore.

• Which GMDSS equipment is mandatory on ships operating in Sea Area

A2?

• MF DSC radio, Navtex
• MF DSC radio, Navtex, and Inmarsat-C
• HF radio, Inmarsat-C
• VHF radio only 2 / 4

Rationale: Sea Area A2 requires equipment capable of long-range

communication beyond VHF, typically MF DSC and Inmarsat-C.

5. The term DSC in GMDSS stands for:

• Digital Safety Communication
• Digital Selective Calling
• Direct Ship Communication
• Distress Signal Control

Rationale: DSC allows automated digital signaling for distress and safety

messages.

• NAVTEX messages are transmitted on which frequency?
• 2187.5 kHz
• 4125 kHz
• 518 kHz
• 156.8 MHz

Rationale: NAVTEX uses 518 kHz for international broadcasts in English.

• Which GMDSS device provides position, identification, and distress

alert via satellite?

• VHF DSC radio
• MF radio
• EPIRB (406 MHz)
• NAVTEX receiver 3 / 4

Rationale: EPIRBs transmit distress alerts including GPS position through

satellites.

• What does an Inmarsat-C terminal provide for GMDSS?
• Voice communication
• Data messaging including distress alerts, safety, and routine

communications

• Shortwave broadcasting
• Radar navigation

Rationale: Inmarsat-C is a satellite-based messaging system for distress

and routine communications.

• Which frequency is designated for VHF distress calling?
• 156.3 MHz
• 156.8 MHz
• 161.975 MHz
• 2187.5 kHz

Rationale: VHF channel 16 (156.8 MHz) is the international distress, safety,

and calling frequency.

• How often should GMDSS equipment be tested for operational

readiness?

• Weekly
• Monthly
• / 4