The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has published the outcome of its consultation on proposed changes to regulations covering the registration of Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs).

Read the summary 

The new regulations would update EPIRB registration requirements to reflect changes in technology and introduce mandatory registration for PLBs used on UK-flagged ships, hovercraft and watercraft. The aim is to ensure the Coastguard has accurate information available to support faster and more effective search and rescue responses.

The RYA is encouraging anyone with a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) to register it now, so they are ready before the new regulations come into force.

Consultations

An initial consultation highlighted the need for clearer guidance particularly around offences, penalties, and how PLBs used on multiple vessels should be registered. A second consultation was held between 13 October and 07 November 2025. The RYA responded to the consultation in support of mandatory PLB registration proposals.

You can read the Government’s full summary of consultation responses and the changes made to the proposals.

Find more information about EPIRBs and PLBs.