The final step is to deliver the application package to one of the 17
Regional Exam Centers (REC) around the nation.

I highly recommend delivering the application to the REC in person,
especially when applying for an original endorsement.
  • When applying in person the REC will administer the Merchant
    Mariner Oath and take payment for the required Coast Guard fees.

If delivering the application in person is not an option you may mail or
email you application to an REC.
  • DO NOT send your application directly to the National Maritime
    Center.

When mailing an application copy both sides of all documents, including
your receipt for payment of fees and use registered mail.

When using email scan both sides of all documents, including your
receipt for payment of fees.
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USCG Fees
The USCG charges fees for evaluation, testing and issuance of a
credential are listed below. These fees can be paid at the Regional
Exam Center (REC) or paid online at the Gov.Pay website.
  • Issuance fee is $45
  • Evaluation fee is $100
  • Testing fee is $95; The testing fee is not required if you complete
    an approved course.
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Merchant Mariner Oath
All applicants for an original issue of an Merchant Mariner Credential
must take the Merchant Mariners Oath. This oath can be taken at the
REC or administered by a licensed Notary.
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National Maritime Center Website
Your best source for all Merchant Mariner Credential information is
always the National Maritime Center (NMC) Website.
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What to Expect After Delivery
The evaluation process will take two to four weeks to complete. When it
is complete the NMC will:
  • If you submitted a course completion certificate with your
    application and your application is approved the NMC will mail the
    Merchant Mariner Credential directly to you.
  • If you did not submit a course completion certificate and your
    application is approved the NMC will mail you a letter stating that
    you are approved to test. You will have one year to complete the
    exams at an REC or complete an approved course and submit the
    certificate of completion to an REC.
  • If your application was not approved you will be mailed a letter
    stating the reason for denial and be given 90 days to provide
    additional documentation.
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Approved Course OR Challenge the Exams
Taking an approved course is not always a requirement for getting an
endorsement and many mariners may wish to challenge the exams.
  • Challenging an exam is done by taking the exams at an REC.

There are many good sources of study material for applicants who
select this option, but the majority of applicants will find that taking an
approved course saves them considerable time and energy and can be
a rewarding experience.

Regardless of the path or school you select I hope this information useful
to you and I wish you the best in your quest for a professional maritime
credential.

Dennis Degner, Instructor
Columbia Pacific Maritime LLC
Step 4 Deliver the Application to a Regional Exam Center
Call (503) 841-6066
for more information or
to schedule a class.
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(c) Dennis A. Degner
2006-2012