EPIRBs must be re-registered every two years with AMSA. This ensures details are kept accurately, especially if someone has bought a different boat and previously forgotten to change details. Beacons generally have a 10-year battery life and the entire beacon will need replacing after the battery expires.

What is the life of an EPIRB?

Once activated, an EPIRB must have a battery that will transmit for a minimum of 48 hours. Most manufacturers offer a 10 year battery life, after which they no longer guarantee that the EPIRB would meet its performance requirements and transmit for at least 48 hours.

How often is an EPIRB required to be tested?

The EPIRB is exposed to the elements at all times yet must be able to perform properly at a moment’s notice. For that reason, your EPIRB and its ancillary devices should be inspected monthly to ensure that they are always ready to work.