BSAC says 406 MHz Personal Locator Beacons carried aboard UK-flagged motorised vessels must now be registered under new UK maritime rules.
UK divers carrying 406 MHz Personal Locator Beacons should check that their devices are registered.
Divers using 406 MHz Personal Locator Beacons are being reminded that registration is now mandatory when the devices are carried aboard UK-flagged motorised vessels.
According to BSAC, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency has warned that it is now a criminal offence to carry an unregistered 406 MHz PLB on a UK-flagged vessel or mechanically propelled watercraft. The rule applies to both existing PLBs and newly purchased units.
What has changed
BSAC states that the Merchant Shipping regulations introduced in 2026 have extended mandatory beacon registration to cover 406 MHz PLBs carried on UK-registered ships, hovercraft and mechanically propelled watercraft. Registration was previously recommended but voluntary.
The requirement does not apply to smaller 156 MHz units, which have limited range and are not covered by the legislation.
Why divers are affected
Many divers carry PLBs as emergency surface-signalling devices, particularly during boat dives, offshore trips, or dives where separation from the vessel is possible.
BSAC notes that if a diver’s PLB is taken to a dive site aboard a mechanically propelled vessel, such as a dive RIB, charter boat or support vessel, it must be registered. Shared PLBs used by clubs, operators or liveaboards must also be registered individually.
Registration advice
Registration is free and can be completed online through the UK 406 MHz Beacon Registry. Owners need the beacon’s unique 15-character Hex ID, contact details, emergency contact information and vessel details where applicable.
BSAC advises PLB owners to keep registration details up to date and to retain proof of registration. Divers should also tell the skipper or coxswain when carrying a PLB aboard.
