VTS FAQs and Contact

Who can apply for VTSO training?

VTSO training is open to anyone interested in becoming a Vessel Traffic Services Officer (VTSO). Prior maritime experience is beneficial but not required.

While certain medical conditions, including colour vision deficiencies, may restrict seafaring roles, these do not necessarily prevent participation in VTS training. If you have any medical conditions or concerns about colour vision, please contact us to discuss your suitability before booking a course

Candidates are generally required to be at least 18 years old. If this does not apply to you, please contact us before booking

Specific entry requirements for each VTS course are detailed on the individual course pages

What courses do I need to complete to become a VTSO?

The required courses depend on your prior maritime qualifications or experience.

Without recognised maritime experience

You must complete VTS VHF (or GMDSS GOC/ROC), VTS Nautical Knowledge, VTS Underpinning Knowledge, and VTS Simulation

With recognised valid maritime qualifications/experience as per MIN 692

You only need to complete VTS Underpinning Knowledge and VTS Simulation

For full details on each course, please refer to the individual course pages

I used to work at sea, but my OOW Unlimited licence has expired. Do I have to complete all four VTSO training courses?

This will depend on when your Officer of the Watch (OOW) licence expired.

If your licence expired within the last five years

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) generally accept your qualification, and you only need to complete VTS Underpinning Knowledge (UPK) and VTS Simulation

If your licence expired more than five years ago

You may need to complete all four courses to refresh your knowledge. However, if you have remained active in the maritime industry in relevant roles, you may be eligible for exemptions

If you think this applies to you, please contact us on the contact details at the top of this page to discuss your options

How long does VTSO training take?

Candidates without recognised maritime qualifications or experience

VTSO training typically takes around five and a half weeks

Candidates with recognised maritime qualifications or experience

Training usually takes approximately two weeks

What VTS courses do you offer?

For a full list of our VTS courses and detailed information, please see our courses page here

Where is the training delivered?

VTS training is conducted at South Shields Marine School in South Shields, England. Your booking confirmation will specify the exact campus, as the school operates two campuses in the area

Is the training internationally recognised?

Yes, VTS training at South Shields Marine School adheres to the IALA C0103 model course standards and is approved by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), making it widely recognised by VTS authorities internationally

What career opportunities are available after completing VTSO training?

Upon completing VTSO training, candidates typically work as VTS Operators at ports, harbours, and coastal VTS centres. With experience, many progress to Team Leader or VTS Supervisor roles, or move into other positions within the port and maritime operations environment.

Is there funding or sponsorship available?

Yes – some VTS centres will sponsor candidates for training, covering course fees and usually providing a salary. These arrangements are made directly between the candidate and their employer and typically require you to be employed by the VTS centre. A full list of UK VTS centres is available here

Occasionally, training fees may also be supported by charities or government funding; however, this varies by country, and we do not hold comprehensive information on such schemes

Can international students apply?

Yes – we welcome students from all over the world. Our VTS qualifications are internationally recognised, and South Shields Marine School has a long history of training maritime professionals globally. We regularly host candidates from Europe, Africa, Asia, and beyond, and all nationalities are welcome

How can I book a place on the VTS courses?

The easiest way to book a place is to call or email our Marine Bookings Team on the contact details at the top of this page

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Who can I contact for more information?

Our VTS Hub page is home to the details of our VTS services. If you have further questions, please get in touch on the contact details at the top of this page