License Guidance for Captains: What the Old Guard Needs to Know
OBTAINING AN ORIGINAL MERCHANT MARINER CREDENTIAL (MMC) As you know requirements have increased over the years for obtaining an original MMC (license/mmd).
OBTAINING AN ORIGINAL MMC Applying for a New Credential falls under Title 46 Sections 10-13 of the Code of Federal Regulations
Citizenship Requirements and Exceptions With few exceptions an applicant must be a citizen in order to obtain a Mariner Credential.
AGE REQUIREMENT Depending on the endorsement(s) an applicant is applying for, the minimum age can range from 16 (with parental consent) to 21.
TWIC An applicant must currently hold or have applied for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). If an applicant does not hold or have not applied for a TWIC, the application for an MMC will not be accepted.
Medical Exam In order to obtain an MMC, an applicant must pass a physical exam. The Doctor must complete it on CG-719K or CG-719K/E (2 Pg. Document)
Drug Test Applicant must complete a DOT 5 Panel Drug Test (CG-719P) from a certified lab or be enroll in Approved Drug Testing Program.
SEA SERVICE Mariners are required to have varying levels of sea service depending on the endorsements being applied for. Sea Service requirements are documented in Title 46 section 11 & 12. Able Seaman/RFPNW QMED/RFPEW
Able Seaman (AB)
STCW Rating Forming Part of a Navigation Watch (RFPNW)
Qualified Member of the Engineering Department (QMED)
STCW Rating Forming Part of a Engineering Watch (RFPEW)
SEA SERVICE (OFFICERS) Mate 200 GT Near Coastal Master 200 GT Near Coastal Master 500/1600 GT Near Coastal 3 rd Mate Unlimited (includes OICNW) First Class Pilots
Mate 200 GT Near Coastal
Master 200 GT Near Coastal
Master 500 GT/1600 GT
3 rd Mate Unlimited
Character Reference If an applicant is applying for an original OFFICER Endorsement(s) he/she is required to submit three letters of recommendation in accordance with 46 CFR 11.205(c).
OATH Every person who s applying for an original MMC must first take an oath Can be done at any Regional Exam Center or by any person legally permitted may administer the oath (extra notary form must be filled out if not done at an REC)
Submitting An Application Applicant s must submit the application to one of the 17 Regional Exam Centers (REC) across the nation
Fees Fees may be paid online at www.pay.gov under the form name USCG Merchant Mariner User Fee Payment Or in person at any REC
Tracking of the Application The REC will ensure the appropriate documents are in the application before accepting the application and mailing it to the National Maritime Center (NMC) Once the REC accepts and send the application to NMC, the CLOCK STARTS on the application
Tracking of the Application Safety & Suitability Screening- National Driver Register Check/Criminal Record Review
Tracking of the Application Preliminary Medical Screen Medical Evaluation (if needed) Top 5 Medical Conditions A) Cardiac disease, B) Diabetes, C) Psychiatric disorders, D) Sleep apnea, E) Chronic use of narcotic or benzodiazepine medication.
Tracking of the Application Professional Qualifications Evaluation - Awaiting Info - Testing Printing and Issuance
Top 5 Reasons in Delays of 1. Medical Condition Applications 2. Sea Service-Missing or conflicting info on sea service ltrs 3. Applications- Missing Signatures 4. Copies of Required Certifcates/Documentsi.e. 1 st Aid/CPR, TOAR, Radar 5. Drug Screen- No MRO signature or company compliance ltr is incorrect per regulations
Appeal Process Applicant Appeal Denial of Request for Reconsideration Letter Request for Reconsideration Awaiting Information Letter Final Agency Action Appeal Package to CGHQ NMC
NMC s Website 80-90% of applicant questions can be found at www.uscg.mil/nmc -The checklist you have seen in this presentation and for all CG issued credentials can be found in Applications
Questions If you have specific questions regarding mariner credentialing policy, please contact: Luke Harden Chief, Mariner Credentialing Program Policy Office of Vessel Activities (CG-5434) Luke.b.harden@uscg.mil Phone: (202) 372-1206 / Fax: (202) 372-1918 2100 2nd St, SW Stop 7581 Washington, DC 20593-7581