Part 2 of the exam, as well as demonstrating a radio call, includes proper use of the phonetic alphabet orally. You will need to memorize it.
On the radio you must use the approved Phonetic Alphabet for both alphabetic spellings and numerics.
Use the Phonetic Alphabet when:
- asked to spell a vessel’s name
- transmission is poor
- using a vessel’s call sign
The 26 code words are as follows (ICAO spellings):
Alfa, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, Echo, Foxtrot, Golf, Hotel, India, Juliet, Kilo, Lima, Mike, November, Oscar, Papa, Quebec, Romeo, Sierra, Tango, Uniform, Victor, Whiskey, X-ray, Yankee, Zulu.
One way to help practice your phonetic alphabet memorization is by testing yourself by looking at car license plates. While you’re driving around, take a look at nearby license plates and test whether you can identify the phonetic alphabet letters that correspond to the respective license plate.
