20% Off Sitewide with Code WEEKEND20
20% Off Sitewide with Code WEEKEND20
20% Off Sitewide with Code WEEKEND20
20% Off Sitewide with Code WEEKEND20
by Bob Figular February 14, 2024 3 min read
Coast Guard statistics indicate that most delays in the licensing process stem from errors and oversights in preparing the application paperwork. A USCG captain's license application package will vary depending on the license you're applying for, but the necessary requirements are covered in the video and the following paragraphs.
Most applicants begin the licensing process by reading and accurately completing Form CG-719B. This form is used for all Coast Guard credentials, both for original first-time applications and license renewals.
Included with your application package, you must provide evidence that you either hold or have applied for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card. To obtain a TWIC card, an individual must provide biographic and biometric information, such as fingerprints, sit for a digital photograph, and successfully pass a security threat assessment conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
The Coast Guard requires you to document the time you've spent on the water. Sea service requirements will vary considerably depending on which license you’re applying for. This information is recorded using the Small Vessel Sea Service Form CG-719S or with sea service letters provided by your employer or employers. If you’re submitting sea service forms to claim time on your own vessel or vessels, you’ll be required to demonstrate that you did, in fact, own the boat you wish to claim time on. This can be accomplished simply by providing records of your boat registration, vessel documentation, insurance card, or sales receipt.
You’re required to take and pass a physical exam within one year of applying for your USCG captain’s license. A physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner can fill out and record their findings on Form CG-719K. Certain medical conditions that may disqualify you for a license or require a waiver, such as:
You must have taken and passed an approved Department of Transportation (DOT) drug test within six months of applying for your captain's license or provide proof of your active participation in a DOT-approved random drug testing program.
If you're applying for a 25, 50, or 100-Ton Master's license, you must provide proof of your US citizenship. A certified copy of your birth certificate or passport will meet this requirement.
You can find the required captain's license application forms here.
You are required to have a valid Adult CPR certification.
You are required to have a Basic First Aid course completed within a year of submitting your application.
The American Red Cross, Heart Association, and PADI all offer classroom courses that will meet these requirements.
Mariners will electronically submit their forms by visiting the Coast Guard's National Maritime Center website. In-person visits to the RECs are no longer required.
The following items are what you need to include when you are renewing a current captain's license with the National Maritime Center:
Mariners may check the status of their applications by visiting the Coast Guard's National Maritime Center website.
To learn more about obtaining a captain's license, check out these resources:
Ask a question, share an experience, or add a helpful tip related to this article. Comments may appear after review to prevent spam.