OUPV vs. Master — At a Glance
Choose the right license before you start accumulating sea time. The OUPV (6-pack) and Master licenses have different sea time requirements and exam scopes.
6-Pack License
- ▸360 days sea service required
- ▸90 days must be within the last 3 years
- ▸Carry up to 6 paying passengers
- ▸Uninspected vessels only
- ▸4 exam modules (see below)
- ▸Most common entry-level license
Master License
- ▸720–1,080 days sea service (varies by tonnage)
- ▸360 days must be within the last 3 years
- ▸Carry unlimited paying passengers
- ▸Inspected vessels — 25, 50, or 100 GRT
- ▸More exam modules — additional navigation and stability
- ▸Can upgrade from OUPV after additional sea time
The 8-Step Application Process
Follow these steps in order. Most applicants complete the process in 3–6 months once sea time requirements are met. Start the TWIC card early — it is the most common delay.
Accumulate Sea Time
OUPV: 360 days minimum (90 days within the last 3 years). Master: 720 days. Record every trip in a logbook — date, vessel, hours, capacity. Any day on the water counts as one sea service day regardless of hours.
Pass a USCG-Approved Drug Test
Submit to a DOT/USCG-approved chemical testing facility. Results must be negative. The drug test must be completed within 185 days before your application is submitted to the NMC. Use a collector certified under 49 CFR Part 40.
Complete the Physical Exam
A licensed physician, PA, or NP fills out Form CG-719K. Vision: 20/200 correctable to 20/40 (better eye) and 20/80 (other eye). Color vision tested. Hearing: whisper test at 3 meters. Exam must be within 12 months of application.
Get CPR & First Aid Certified
Obtain current CPR and First Aid certification from an approved provider: American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or National Safety Council. Must be valid (not expired) at application date. Most certifications last 2 years.
Apply for / Confirm TWIC Card
Apply for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential through TSA. Background check required. Costs approximately $125. Valid 5 years. You must have the card in hand before the NMC will issue your MMC. Apply early — processing takes 4–8 weeks.
Assemble & Submit Application to NMC
Complete Form CG-719B (MMC application), attach all supporting documents, pay the application fee (approximately $95–$140 depending on endorsements), and submit to a Regional Exam Center or mail to the NMC. Processing typically takes 30–90 days.
Pass the USCG Examination
Scheduled at a Regional Exam Center (REC). OUPV exam: Rules of the Road, Deck General, Navigation General, and Chart Plotting — each module must be passed at 70% or better. You may retake failed modules. Bring government-issued ID and your TWIC card.
Receive Your MMC
Once the NMC approves your application, exam results are recorded, and all requirements are satisfied, your Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) is issued and mailed to you. It is valid for 5 years. It replaces all older license/document/certificate formats.
Sea Time Requirements by License Type
Any day spent on the water in any capacity — as operator, crew, or owner — counts as one day of sea service. Keep a logbook with vessel name, date, and capacity for every trip.
| License | Total Days | Recency | Passengers | Vessel Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OUPV (6-pack) | 360 days | 90 days in last 3 years | Up to 6 paying passengers | Uninspected vessels |
| Master — 25 GRT | 360 days | 90 days in last 3 years | Unlimited inspected vessel | Up to 25 GRT inspected |
| Master — 50 GRT | 720 days | 360 days in last 3 years | Unlimited inspected vessel | Up to 50 GRT inspected |
| Master — 100 GRT | 1,080 days | 360 days in last 3 years | Unlimited inspected vessel | Up to 100 GRT inspected |
Sea Service Documentation Tips
- ▸Use Form CG-719S for each vessel or employer — one form per vessel/employer
- ▸For recreational boating, you can self-certify — no employer signature required
- ▸Keep a logbook with date, vessel name, official number, hours, and capacity for every trip
- ▸Route matters — near-coastal, inland, Great Lakes, and oceans are different route endorsements
- ▸Sea service on non-motorized vessels (sailboats) counts for sailing endorsements but not for power
MMC vs. Old-Format Licenses
Old Format (Pre-2014)
Separate License / Document / Certificate
- ▸Issued as 3 separate documents by Regional Exam Centers (RECs)
- ▸Captain's "license" — wallet card or 8.5×11 certificate
- ▸Merchant Mariner's Document (MMD) — separate booklet
- ▸Certificate of Registry — another separate document
- ▸Still valid until expiration if issued before MMC transition
- ▸Converted to MMC format upon renewal
Current Format (2014–present)
Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
- ▸Single passport-style booklet — all endorsements in one document
- ▸Issued by the National Maritime Center (NMC)
- ▸Contains all capacity endorsements, medical certificates, and endorsements
- ▸Valid for 5 years from issuance
- ▸Renewal handled entirely through NMC (no more REC for paperwork)
- ▸Exams still taken in person at a Regional Exam Center
USCG Exam Format — OUPV
The OUPV exam is administered at a Regional Exam Center. Each module is separate and must be passed at 70% or better. You may retake failed modules — you do not have to retake modules you already passed.
Rules of the Road
Exam Favorite- ▸International (COLREGS) vs. Inland Navigation Rules
- ▸Lights and shapes — power, sail, anchor, towing, restricted
- ▸Sound and light signals — fog, maneuvering, distress
- ▸Traffic separation schemes and VTS
- ▸Vessel hierarchy — give-way vs. stand-on
- ▸Crossing, meeting, and overtaking situations
Deck General
- ▸PFDs — Types I–IV and Type V, requirements, stowage
- ▸Fire prevention and extinguishers — Class A/B/C/D/K
- ▸Visual distress signals — day/night, expiration
- ▸EPIRB, SART, GMDSS equipment
- ▸Stability — free surface effect, loading, flooding
- ▸MARPOL — discharge rules, oil record book
- ▸Towing — rigging, wire, bridles, emergencies
- ▸Boating accident reporting — CFR 46 Part 4
Navigation General
- ▸Compass — variation, deviation, compass error
- ▸Tides and currents — prediction, effect on navigation
- ▸Weather — fronts, fog, Beaufort scale, forecasting
- ▸Buoyage — IALA-B system, lateral and cardinal marks
- ▸Lights — range, characteristics, identification
- ▸Anchoring — scope calculation, holding ground, dragging
- ▸Speed, time, distance calculations
Chart Plotting
- ▸Dead reckoning — advancing a position by course and speed
- ▸Plotting a bearing line of position (LOP)
- ▸Fix by two or more bearings
- ▸Set and drift — current correction
- ▸Time, speed, distance by DR
- ▸Chart symbols, soundings, depth contours
- ▸Using parallel rulers and dividers
Chart Plotting Tools — Bring to the Exam
Parallel Rulers
Transfer courses and bearings across the compass rose on a nautical chart
Dividers
Measure distances on the latitude scale along the chart's sides
Calculator
Time, speed, distance calculations — basic non-programmable is fine
Pencil & Eraser
Mark courses and positions on the chart — pencil only, ink is not accepted
Nautical Chart
Provided at the REC for the chart plotting module — you don't need to bring your own
Tide & Current Tables
Provided at the REC for applicable questions — verify with your REC in advance
Physical & Medical Requirements
Vision Standards
- ▸Distant vision: 20/200 or better in each eye correctable to 20/40 (better eye) / 20/80 (other eye)
- ▸Color vision: must distinguish colors used in navigation lights (red, green, white) — tested with Ishihara plates
- ▸Glasses and contact lenses are acceptable — note them on the exam form
- ▸Night vision not formally tested but doctor may note impairment
Hearing Standards
- ▸Must hear a forced whisper in the better ear at 3 meters (10 feet)
- ▸Hearing aids are acceptable — note them on the exam form
- ▸Bilateral deafness is disqualifying without a waiver
General Physical
- ▸Form CG-719K completed by licensed physician, PA, or NP
- ▸No USCG-approved doctors list — any licensed U.S. provider can sign
- ▸Certain medications and conditions require additional documentation — epilepsy, insulin-dependent diabetes, and cardiac conditions often require waivers
- ▸Valid for 12 months from the date of the exam
Drug Test
- ▸DOT-regulated 5-panel urine test at an approved collection site
- ▸Results reviewed by a Medical Review Officer (MRO)
- ▸Must be completed within 185 days before application submission
- ▸Positive result = disqualified; may reapply after evaluation and treatment program
- ▸Random drug testing continues after you receive your license (for commercial work)
License Renewal — 5-Year Cycle
Your MMC expires every 5 years. Start the renewal process up to 8 months before expiration. If you let it lapse, you must go through the full original application process again — including re-examination.
Submit renewal application (CG-719B)
Up to 8 months before expiration
Prove 1 year sea service in past 5 years OR complete approved refresher course
Documented before renewal
Current physical exam (CG-719K)
Within 12 months of renewal application
Current CPR & First Aid certification
Must not be expired
Negative drug test from approved MRO
Within 185 days of application
TWIC card renewal (5-year cycle)
Before expiration — apply early
Renewal fee payment
With application
Continuing Education Option
If you cannot document 1 year of sea service in the past 5 years, you may complete an approved refresher course in lieu of the sea service requirement. These courses are typically 1–3 days and cover updated regulations, safety equipment, and rule changes. Check the NMC website for currently approved providers. The physical, drug test, and CPR requirements cannot be waived — they are always required for renewal.
Upgrading Your License
Additional sea time; Master exam modules
Good step-up for small passenger vessels — fishing charters, tours.
720 total days; 360 recent; additional exam
Covers most commercial fishing and passenger operations under 50 GRT.
1,080 total days; additional tonnage exam
Required for larger passenger vessels, dinner cruises, ferries.
Credential Fees
| Item | Approximate Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NMC Application Fee | $95–$140 | Varies by license type and endorsements requested |
| TWIC Card | ~$125 | Paid to TSA; valid 5 years; required before MMC issued |
| Drug Test | $40–$80 | Varies by collection site; DOT-regulated |
| Physical Exam (CG-719K) | $75–$200 | Varies by provider; any licensed physician can perform |
| CPR & First Aid Course | $50–$150 | Many community options; included in some prep courses |
| Captain's License Prep Course | $300–$1,200 | Optional but recommended; online and in-person options |
| Total Estimated Cost | $600–$1,700 | Excluding sea time accumulation; renewal is less |
Background Check & Disqualifying Offenses
TWIC Background Check
The TSA conducts a criminal history records check (CHRC) as part of the TWIC application. Permanent disqualifying offenses include:
- ✕Espionage, treason, or terrorism
- ✕Murder or certain violent felonies
- ✕Illegal possession or distribution of explosives
- ✕Certain drug convictions within the past 7 years
- ✕Dishonest discharge from the armed forces
NMC Character Review
The NMC also conducts its own character review under 46 CFR Part 10.211. Certain convictions can be disqualifying or require additional review:
- !Drug offenses — even misdemeanors require disclosure
- !DUI / DWI convictions within the last 3 years
- !Felony convictions (some are waivable after sufficient time)
- !Violations of vessel laws or maritime regulations
- ▸Consult an attorney before applying if you have any criminal history — many situations are manageable with proper disclosure
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days of sea time do I need for an OUPV (6-pack) license?
You need a minimum of 360 days of sea service to qualify for an OUPV (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels) license, commonly called the 6-pack license. At least 90 of those 360 days must have been accrued within the 3 years immediately preceding your application. Sea time is counted in days — any day on the water doing boating activity counts as one day, regardless of how many hours you spent.
What is the difference between an OUPV and a Master license?
An OUPV (6-pack) license allows you to carry up to 6 paying passengers on uninspected vessels. A Master license allows you to carry more than 6 paying passengers on inspected vessels. The Master license requires 720 days of sea service (versus 360 for OUPV), and the exam is more comprehensive, including additional navigation and chart plotting sections. Both require TWIC card, physical, drug test, CPR/First Aid, and an NMC application.
What is the MMC and how does it replace the old paper licenses?
The Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) is the current credential format issued by the National Maritime Center (NMC). It replaced the old separate 'license,' 'document,' and 'certificate' booklets that mariners used to receive. The MMC is a single credential — a booklet similar to a passport — that contains all of your endorsed capacities and endorsements. If you hold an older-format captain's license (pre-MMC era), it is still valid until its expiration date, but upon renewal it will be converted to an MMC.
What does the 90-day recency rule mean?
The 90-day recency requirement means that at least 90 of your qualifying sea service days must have been earned within the 3 years immediately before the date of your application. This ensures your experience is recent. If you earned 360 days of sea time but all of it was more than 3 years ago, your application will be deficient and you will need to accrue additional recent sea time before applying.
What physical and medical standards must I meet for a captain's license?
USCG requires a physical examination completed by a licensed physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner. Vision requirements: distant vision of at least 20/200 in each eye correctable to 20/40 in the better eye and 20/80 in the other. Color vision: ability to distinguish colors used in navigation lights and signals (tested with Ishihara plates or similar). Hearing: able to hear a forced whisper in the better ear at 3 meters (about 10 feet). The USCG CG-719K form is the standard physical exam form used by all applicants.
What are the sections of the USCG captain's license exam?
The USCG OUPV exam consists of four modules: (1) Rules of the Road — the International and Inland Navigation Rules (COLREGS), light and sound signals, traffic separation schemes; (2) Deck General — vessel stability, fire safety, PFDs, EPIRB, flares, towing, emergency procedures; (3) Navigation General — compass, charts, tides, currents, weather, sailing; and (4) Chart Plotting — dead reckoning, plotting bearings, determining position, time/speed/distance problems using a nautical chart. A passing score is 70% on each module. The Master exam adds additional navigation and stability sections.
Do I need CPR and First Aid certification for a captain's license?
Yes. USCG requires a current CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and First Aid certification for all captain's license applicants. The certification must be from an approved provider such as the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or the National Safety Council. It must be current (not expired) at the time of your application. Most CPR/First Aid certifications are valid for 2 years. Some USCG-approved captain's license schools include CPR/First Aid training as part of their course.
What is the TWIC card and is it required for a captain's license?
The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is a biometric identity card issued by the TSA after a background check. It is required for all mariners applying for an MMC. You apply through TSA — not the USCG — at an enrollment center. The background check includes criminal history screening; convictions for certain crimes (drug offenses, violent crimes) can be disqualifying. The TWIC card costs approximately $125 and is valid for 5 years. You must have a TWIC card in hand before the NMC will issue your MMC.
What is the NMC and where do I submit my application?
The National Maritime Center (NMC) is the USCG branch that processes all MMC applications. It replaced the old Regional Examination Centers (RECs) as the centralized processing hub. You submit your application package — CG-719B application form, sea service documentation (CG-719S forms or letter from employer), physical exam (CG-719K), drug test results, CPR/First Aid certificate, TWIC card copy, and fees — to the NMC via mail or through a Regional Exam Center. Exams are still taken in person at a USCG Regional Exam Center (REC).
How do I document my sea service?
Sea service is documented on USCG Form CG-719S (Sea Service Form) or a letter from your employer on company letterhead. The form must include: vessel name, official number, vessel type, gross tons, route operated, your capacity (master, mate, deckhand, etc.), and the total days served. For recreational boating, you can self-certify sea service on the CG-719S. For commercial sea time, your employer or the vessel owner signs the form. Keep a logbook — daily entries are the best supporting documentation if your records are ever questioned.
How long is a captain's license valid and how do I renew it?
An MMC / captain's credential is valid for 5 years. To renew, you must: (1) submit a renewal application (CG-719B) within one year before expiration; (2) show 1 year of sea service in the past 5 years OR complete an approved refresher course; (3) provide a current physical exam; (4) provide current CPR/First Aid; (5) pass a drug test; and (6) pay the renewal fee. If you let your credential expire, you must complete the full original application process again, including re-examination. Renewal starts up to 8 months before expiration to avoid lapse.
How do I upgrade from OUPV to a Master's license?
To upgrade from OUPV to Master, you need to accumulate the additional sea time required for the tonnage level you are seeking (720 days for a Master), satisfy the recency requirement, and pass the additional exam modules required at the Master level. You must submit a new application to the NMC, including updated sea service documentation, a current physical, and pass any additional examinations. Time served as an OUPV licensee counts toward Master sea service. You will receive a new MMC showing both your original OUPV endorsement and your new Master endorsement.
Related Study Guides
Rules of the Road
Navigation Rules, COLREGS, lights, shapes, sound signals — the most-tested exam module.
Deck General Safety
PFDs, fire classes, EPIRB, MARPOL, stability — everything in the Deck General exam module.
Chart Plotting
Dead reckoning, LOPs, set and drift, time/speed/distance — the hands-on exam module.
Start Practicing for Your USCG Exam
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