Much like all the other new technologies in the maritime industry, ECDIS also requires formal training before an officer can confidently operate it onboard a vessel. The IMO has mandated two levels of ECDIS training: Generic and Type-Specific.

Generic ECDIS Training:
Generic training gives seafarers a foundational understanding of ECDIS principles, ENC data, route planning, voyage monitoring, and system limitations. This training is equipment-independent and provides the theoretical and practical base that every deck officer needs regardless of which ECDIS brand is fitted on their ship.

Type-Specific ECDIS Training:
Type-specific training is tailored to a particular manufacturer's ECDIS equipment. Since each brand — JRC, Furuno, Transas, Kongsberg, etc. — has a unique interface, menu structure, and alarm management system, officers must be trained on the exact model installed on their vessel.

Key Differences at a Glance:
Generic training covers ECDIS theory, international standards (IEC 61174, S-52, S-57), and general operation. Type-specific training covers the exact hardware and software controls for a given manufacturer's system, including software updates and alarm settings unique to that model.

Both certifications are mandatory under STCW 2010 Manila Amendments, and operators must hold both certificates for the ECDIS fitted on their current vessel.