Which organization certifies Part 80 marine transmitting equipment in the United States?

• A. Federal Communications Commission
• B. Department of Transportation
• C. National Telecommunications and Information Administration
• D. Coast Guard

Answer: (A)

Part 80 covers maritime radio services, and equipment used for these transmissions must be tested and authorized before sale and use. The Federal Communications Commission is the agency charged with setting the technical standards for radio gear and issuing equipment authorizations. This certification ensures the device meets emissions limits, power, and frequency stability necessary to operate without causing interference to other services. The Coast Guard handles safety, licensing, and operational rules for maritime communications, but it does not certify equipment. The Department of Transportation doesn’t certify radio gear, and NTIA manages government spectrum use rather than private equipment certification. So, the organization that certifies Part 80 marine transmitting equipment is the Federal Communications Commission.