Practice Test Geeks(VTS) Vessel Traffic Services Operator Exam Practice Test
← All VTS Flashcard Decks

Communication Procedures Flashcards

7 cards from real VTS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Communication Procedures flashcards as text

  1. A vessel reports engine failure while transiting a VTS zone. What is the FIRST communication action the VTS operator should take?

    Answer: Acknowledge the report, assess the situation, and notify other vessels of a hazard if warranted

    The operator must first acknowledge and gather situational information before escalating; a SECURITE broadcast may follow if other traffic is at risk.

  2. In IMO Standard Marine Communication Phrases, what does the phrase 'Do you require a pilot?' mean?

    Answer: Is your vessel in need of a licensed maritime pilot for navigation assistance?

    In SMCP, 'pilot' refers to a maritime pilot — a licensed navigator who boards vessels to guide them through ports, harbors, or other restricted waters.

  3. What channel is typically designated as the primary VTS working channel in U.S. ports and waterways?

    Answer: Channel 65A

    Channel 65A (156.275 MHz) is frequently designated as a VTS working channel in U.S. ports, though local assignments vary by port authority.

  4. A VTS operator receives an unintelligible transmission. Which is the correct response?

    Answer: Transmit 'UNKNOWN STATION, YOUR TRANSMISSION WAS UNINTELLIGIBLE, SAY AGAIN' on the working channel

    Standard procedure is to inform the unknown station that their transmission was unintelligible and request they repeat, using clear standard phraseology.

  5. The proword 'OUT' at the end of a transmission means:

    Answer: This conversation is ended and no reply is expected

    'OUT' signals the end of a transmission when no reply is expected, indicating the exchange is complete.

  6. Under FCC regulations, how long must a maritime VHF radio station maintain logs of communications involving distress or safety traffic?

    Answer: 3 years

    FCC regulations require that logs involving distress or safety communications be retained for a minimum of three years.

  7. A vessel transmits its ETA as '1430L.' What does the 'L' suffix signify?

    Answer: The time is local time at the destination port

    In maritime communications, an 'L' suffix indicates Local time, as opposed to 'Z' (Zulu/UTC), so the operator must confirm which time zone applies.