March 15, 2024

Notice of Proposed Rulemaking: Mariner Credentialing Program Transformation

The Coast Guard has published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register proposing updates to the Merchant Mariner Credentialing Program (MCP) for the submission of information, fee payments, and technical updates.

Feb. 26, 2024

Coast Guard Announces New Merchant Mariner Credential

The U.S. Coast Guard announced a new merchant mariner credential (MMC) set to launch on March 1, 2024. This milestone marks the first comprehensive revision of the mariner credential in nearly a decade and is strategically designed to enhance both the quality of service and security within the Marine Transportation System (MTS). As the exclusive source of U.S. mariner credentials, the Coast Guard will continue to grant these credentials to mariners who meet the necessary qualifications and suitability criteria, enabling them to serve on U.S. flagged vessels.

Aug. 2, 2023

Calculator Policy for All Mariner Credentialing Examinations

Beginning January 1, 2024, all mariners testing at a regional examination center, monitoring unit, or federal/state maritime academy will be issued a Texas Instruments TI-30XIIS calculator to use during their examination(s).

May 1, 2023

Information on delays in the production of merchant mariner credentials

The U.S. Coast Guard recently published a Marine Safety Information Bulletin (MSIB 6-23) and NMC bulletin explaining that it is experiencing delays in the production of merchant mariner credentials (MMCs).