Besondere Berechtigung für Radar

The besondere Berechtigung für Radar (special authorization for radar) is a German inland navigation qualification required for the use of radar in vessel operation on inland waterways. It certifies that the holder is qualified to navigate using radar in accordance with applicable inland navigation regulations.

Legal basis

The legal basis of the radar authorization is provided by the German Binnenschiffspersonalverordnung (BinSchPersV) and the inland navigation traffic regulations. These provisions require that radar navigation may only be conducted by persons holding an appropriate certificate of competence that includes the special authorization for radar.

Under current law, the radar authorization has replaced the former Radarpatent for new applicants. Existing radar patents continue to be recognized under transitional provisions.

Function

The besondere Berechtigung für Radar serves as proof that its holder is capable of safely navigating a vessel using radar equipment. Inland navigation regulations provide that radar may only be used if a qualified person with the appropriate authorization is on board.

The authorization is required in situations where navigation by radar is necessary, for example in conditions of restricted visibility.

Requirements

Applicants for the radar authorization must:

• hold a valid certificate of competence for inland navigation or sport boat operation
• demonstrate knowledge of radar operation and interpretation
• be familiar with relevant navigation regulations

Further administrative requirements are defined by the competent authorities.

Examination

The examination for the radar authorization consists of theoretical and practical components. It includes:

• operation of radar equipment
• interpretation of radar images
• navigation procedures using radar
• relevant legal provisions

The practical examination typically involves simulated or real radar navigation scenarios.

Administration

The besondere Berechtigung für Radar is issued by the competent German waterways authorities. Examination and certification are carried out in accordance with inland navigation personnel regulations.

Relation to Radarpatent

The besondere Berechtigung für Radar has replaced the Radarpatent as the standard qualification for radar navigation. While new applicants obtain the radar authorization, older radar patents remain valid under transitional provisions laid down in the Binnenschiffspersonalverordnung.

Position in the German certification system

The radar authorization is a supplementary qualification within the German inland navigation system. It does not replace a general navigation licence such as the Sportbootführerschein Binnen, but is required in addition to such licences when radar navigation is carried out.