The purpose of the examinations is to show that applicants for the ROCC can demonstrate their knowledge of standard phraseology and procedures relevant to the operation of an Air Ground Communication Service radio station operator.

Syllabus
The syllabus for ROCC study & exams is in CAP452, the Radio Station Operators Guide. You need to study those parts of the CAA Radio Telephony Manual** CAP413 that cover Air Ground operations.

Note:  CAP413 and CAP 452 Supplements are also online & should also be read.

The Radio Operators Certificate of Competence (ROCC) test

What do the ROCC Tests involve?

The Exams come in two parts; a Written test and a Practical test.

The Written Test has 25 question headings with sub-questions making about 50 questions in all.  They require require written answers (not multiple choice). Time allowed one hour.  Pass mark is 75%.

The Practical Test is a simulation of operations at a typical airfield, covering all the scenarios a radio operator is likely to encounter, including initial radio calls, departures and arrivals, circuit traffic, passing traffic, flight plan clearances, ground operations and emergencies.  The candidate assumes the role of radio operator, the examiner is everyone else.  There is no time limit on this test, but it normally takes 30-40 minutes.

If the candidate is successful, the Applicant files an application form, (endorsed by the Examiner) & ID via the CAA website. The Examiner submits all the exam paperwork to the CAA separately, with a recommendation that the applicant be issued an ROCC.   

If this all sounds a bit daunting - yes you do need to know your stuff, but it is also stimulating and most candidates find it enjoyable, because we try to make it that way and we have very few failures!

What do you need to do before a course or one-to-one training?

1. The source of everything you need to know for the ROCC is in CAP 413, the CAA Radiotelephony Manual.  
2. Pay particular attention to those sections that relate to airfield air/ground communications.  The ‘syllabus’ for ROCC exams can be found in CAP 452, the Radio Station Operators Guide.  
3. Learn the basics of words & numbers phonetics, radio procedures & practice and aviation abbreviations.

Fees and Charges

• Please call us for our day & hourly rates.
• The CAA charge £50 (as of April 2026) to issue an ROCC (paid direct to the CAA).
• We may hold training courses around the UK.  See the ‘Courses’ page for details.
• *If successful you will need to provide a colour scan of your passport or Driving Licence for I.D. To the CAA.

Payments

• Payment of hourly fees for one-to-one training is by arrangement.
• Invoices will be provided on request.
• Payment can be made prior to the course date by bank transfer (BACS).  Bank details will be provided to candidates who have signed up for training or exams.  Payment can also be made in-person or online by Debit or Credit card. Note:  Debit/Credit card payments carry a 2.5% surcharge.
• Note: We no longer accept Paypal payments
• There is no VAT chargeable on our fees.

AirBASE is based in the East of England and operates across the UK   +44(0)7770 883216

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