Authority
Requirements
NMC Checklist for Master 500/1600 Near Coastal
CFR Reference: 46 CFR 11.412 (Master 1600)
CFR Reference: 46 CFR 11.418 (Master 500)
CFR Reference: 46 CFR 11.418(b) (Towing to Master 500)
RECENCY: 90 days in the past 3 years on vessels of appropriate tonnage
ENGINE DEPARTMENT EXPERIENCE gained on vessels of appropriate tonnage may be creditable for up to 90 days of the sea service requirements.
Examination
DECK EXAMINATION GUIDE: ESS 1-7. At this link, you will find two Deck Examination Guides. If your qualifying service for the license began before March 24, 2014, you may opt to be examined under the procedures of the old Deck Examination Guide. The old guide’s examinations are significantly less difficult in most cases than the new guide’s. Note: If a mariner holds a Master 500 Near Coastal or Ocean and meets the service requirements of the Master 1600, he or she may raise the tonnage to 1600 on the same route without further examination.
If a mariner holds a Master or Mate Towing credential for Near Coastal or Ocean waters, he or she will be eligible for the Master 500 NC or Oceans after 360 days of service under the credential. The examination for this credential consists of only three modules rather than six (see Notes at the bottom of ESS 1-7). This “short cut” will become less short (though still shorter than the full exam) as of January 1, 2017.
To Apply for the Credential
Credential Assistance
If you need help determining your eligibility or completing your application, please email us at Credential Assistance.
Classes
Mariners preparing for these credential examinations can begin on almost any Monday. The course of study lasts from 6 to 10 weeks and is a combination of lectures and tutorials. The tuition is good for one year.