An Overview of the U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential

The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center strives to provide qualified Mariners with an efficient system in which to earn a U.S. merchant mariner credential. It does with the purpose of providing a secure and well-operated Marine Transportation System.

Guidelines for the merchant mariner credential are included in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 46, Part 10. Below is an overview of some of the most pertinent aspects of the merchant mariner credential (MMC).

The Goal of Establishing Strict Guidelines for Attaining the MMC

The US Coast Guard follows a certain set of criteria when evaluating potential candidates for a merchant mariner credential.

The stated goals are to:

• verify and assess the qualifications and eligibility of all applicants seeking to serve aboard merchant vessels;
• determine that each applicant can competently serve under the authority of his or her MMC;
• ensure each applicant applies for and earns a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) via the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) – this is done to confirm an applicant presents no threat to national security; and
• determine, overall, that an applicant is a person well-suited to the role and who can perform the task safely and within reason.
• Characteristics of the Merchant Mariner Credential

The merchant mariner credential is issued via U.S. Coast Guard form CG-4610. It combines several elements including:

• merchant mariner’s document;
• merchant mariner’s license; and
• certificate of registry.

These elements are no longer issued separately, but instead appear as endorsements on an MMC. Such certification may be issued directly by the National Maritime Center or via a Regional Examination Center. It may also be issued through the mail.

All those wishing to hold a mariner’s credential must also hold a TWIC, as noted above. A failure to do so may result in the denial of an initial application, request for renewal or additional endorsements.

Outlining the Parameters of an MMC

An MMC is subject to a number of rules and limitations. Some of the most important parameters to know include:

• each MMC is valid for no more than five years from the date of issue;
• endorsements remain valid until the date of expiration for the MMC;
• those with an MMC have a one-year time period in which to renew an existing credential; and
• an MMC that has not be signed by the applicant and authorized by a qualified U.S. Coast Guard official is considered invalid.

The person who holds the MMC is authorized to serve in a capacity as outlined by the endorsements associated with his or her MMC.

Notes About the Application for an MMC

The U.S. Coast Guard is rigorous when assessing candidates for an MMC. Some of the aspects of application include:

• examination of the applicant’s criminal record;
• vision, hearing and medical exams;
• evidence of sea experience (when applicable); and
• more.

Looking for additional resources to help stay in compliance with U.S. Coast Guard requirements? Visit our free Logbook Quick Reference Guide or place an order online or by calling (888) 468-3757.