Phonetic Alphabet

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 .

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 is by looking at car license plates and test whether you can say the phonetic alphabet letters on the plate.

Listing of Phonetic Alphabet