How can I become a merchant marine?

To become a merchant marine, you must abide by the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center’s (NMC) credential application process. It can be somewhat of an arduous process, but becoming a merchant marine means taking a step toward entering one of the most dynamic, rewarding careers in existence.

Understanding Merchant Mariner Credentials

Those who follow the credential application process and become part of the merchant marines are called mariners or sailors. All mariners on U.S. merchant ships that weigh more than 100 gross tons are required to have a valid merchant mariner credential. Having this credential doesn’t necessarily guarantee that you’ll find employment, but it does mean that you are qualified and legally certified to work in the shipboard merchant marine industry.

Steps to Becoming a Merchant Mariner

The NMC has a five-step process for obtaining your merchant mariner credentials:

• Step 1 – Obtain a Transportation Worker’s Identification Credential (TWIC) from the Transportation Safety Administration. Congress created TWICs as part of the Maritime Transportation Security Act as a way to enhance port security. All workers who require unescorted access to secure areas of the nation’s maritime transportation system must obtain a TWIC.
• Step 2 – Submit CG-719B, the Application for Merchant Mariner Credential. This can be done at a local Regional Exam Center (REC) or by mail. At this stage in the process, most applicants also will have to submit medical and drug testing forms. You can speak with someone at a REC to determine which forms you’re required to submit.
• Step 3 – The REC will review your application by using the MMC Application Acceptance Checklist, and then forward it to the NMC.
• Step 4 – The NMC will review your application. It will take a careful look at your criminal record, proof of citizenship, medical forms and professional qualifications.
• Step 5 – If accepted, the NMC will print and mail your credential to you.

Help for the MMC Application Process

The NMC provides a wealth of helpful resources on its website to inform merchant mariner hopefuls about the program and provide assistance for completing the credential application process.

When you visit the website, some of the things that might be helpful include:

• the Obtaining a Merchant Mariner Credential brochure;
• the Merchant Mariner Credential Application Acceptance Checklist;
• the Online Wizard for Original Application;
• the CG 719B Instructional Video; and
• the USCG’s memo, Top 10 Common Errors and Tips for Mariners to Avoid Delays with their Licensing Application (it’s common for applications to be delayed due to applicant errors or omissions).

Take note of the required qualifications listed on the NMC site for obtaining your credentials because they vary according to the type of endorsements you request.

Check out our blog for more maritime topics for those in the maritime industry and those who are looking to enter it. Proper compliance is essential at all levels of the industry, so check out our free guide to learn which logbooks your vessel may require.