47 U.S.C. § 382: Vessels excepted from radiotelephone requirement

The provisions of this part shall not apply to—(1) vessels which are equipped with a radio installation in accordance with the provisions of part II of this subchapter, or in accordance with the radio requirements of the Safety Convention; and (2) vessels of the United States belonging to and operated by the Government, and (3) vessels navigating on the Great Lakes.