One Minute Guide: How to Get Your 25/50 or 100-Ton Master Captain’s License

The UCSG Master License is the highest level of captain's license that can be obtained and allows you to perform the duties of an OUPV/Six-Pack captain and also operate inspected vessels. Inspected vessels are approved to carry seven or more paying passengers and have been built in accordance with rigid USCG standards.

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Common Questions About the 25/50 or 100-Ton Master Captain's License

1 HOW BIG IS A 25/50/100-TON VESSEL?

A 25-ton vessel can be 40-65 feet, depending on how it's built. A 50-ton vessel can be 50-70 feet, depending on the type and material it is built with. A 100-ton boat or vessel can be 65 feet or more, depending on its construction and commercial uses. These are generalizations but useful guides.

2 WHERE CAN I TAKE A 100-TON MASTER'S LICENSE PRACTICE TEST?

Mariners Learning System offers a USCG-approved course, including practice questions to prepare you for the 25-ton, 50-ton, and 100-ton Master license exams. Check out the 25/50 or 100-Ton Master Captain’s License - Online Course and Exam to learn more. 

3 HOW DO I UPGRADE FROM A 50-TON TO 100-TON MASTER INLAND LICENSE?

To upgrade from a 50 to 100-ton Master Captain's License, you need to be able to document the following sea service requirements:

• 100 GRT - 90 days (25%) of service on vessels of 51 GRT or above, OR
• 180 days (50%) of service on vessels of 34 GRT or above

4 HOW DO I UPGRADE FROM A 50-TON TO 100-TON MASTER COASTAL LICENSE?

To upgrade from a 50 to 100-ton Master Captain's License, you need to be able to document the following sea service requirements:

• 180 days (25%) of service on vessels of 51 GRT or above, OR
• 360 days of service on vessels of 34 GRT or above

5 HOW DO I UPGRADE FROM AN INLAND TO NEAR COASTAL MASTER?

If you are also increasing the area where you are eligible to operate commercially, you will need to take the MLS Coast Guard-approved Upgrade course and exam and submit the necessary boating experience. 

Make sure to check what designation your OUPV/Six-Pack is, as this may result in additional testing. 

NEXT STEPS TO GET YOUR 100-TON MASTER LICENSE

If aiming for a Master's Captain's License resonates with you, here are the next steps you can take:

• Watch this video: Requirements for Inspected Vessel Master Captain’s License
• Check out this infographic: Getting Your 25/50/100 Ton Master Captain's License
• Purchase the 25/50 or 100-Ton Master Captain’s License - Online Course and Exam
• If you already have the OUPV license, purchase the OUPV/Six-Pack Upgrade to 25/50 or 100-Ton Master Captain’s License - Online Course and Exam