You are signing on a deck officer, who will be designated as one of the GMDSS operators, before sailing foreign. Which statement is TRUE?

Correct Answer: Option D — He/she must have an STCW certificate endorsed as "Valid for Service on Vessels Operating in the GMDSS System".

STCW Convention requirements mandate that deck officers serving on vessels equipped with GMDSS must hold a valid GMDSS endorsement. This certification confirms the officer has completed the required training and assessment to operate GMDSS equipment, ensuring compliance with international safety and communication standards for vessels operating globally.