What You Need to Know About Renewing Your Captain's License
What are the sea service requirements for renewal?
For a captain's license renewal, you need 360 days of documented sea service time within the last five years.
If you do not have this sea time and are within the one-year grace period, you can take the Deck License Renewal course in lieu of that sea service requirement.
What additional requirements must I meet to renew my current credentials?
To renew your OUPV/Master Deck License, you must be able to show 360 days (one year) of sea service during the past five years. This must be verified by completing the Small Vessel Sea Service Form or by providing a vessel owner/company letter verifying your sea service. Many boat captains find themselves nearing renewal but, for various reasons, cannot meet the Coast Guard's one-year service requirement.
An alternative to meeting the one-year sea service requirement is to take the Mariners Learning System Deck License Renewal course. Upon completion of the MLS online course, you take our final proctored exam, after which a Certificate of Completion will be issued. The U.S. Coast Guard will accept this certificate in lieu of meeting the time requirement.
Additional requirements include:
- Complete the USCG License Renewal Application (Form CG-719B)
- Have a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC Card)
- Pass a Physical Examination
- Take a DOT Drug Test. If you are currently enrolled in a DOT-approved random drug testing program, you will not be required to take a new drug test for license renewal.
- Application fee for renewing
NOTE: You DO NOT need First Aid & CPR cards to renew your license. However, if you are working professionally, you will want to make sure those are current.