Authority

The Mate 1600 GRT Great Lakes and/or Inland credential allows the holder to serve as Mate on vessels less than 1600 GRT (except towing vessels) on the Great Lakes and/or Inland Waters. After 30 days of training and observation on towing vessels and the completion of a TOAR (Towing Officer’s Assessment Record), the mariner may serve as a Mate Towing Inland (or Great Lakes, if appropriate).The Mate 500 GRT Great Lakes and/or Inland credential allows the holder to serve as Mate on vessels less than 500 GRT (except towing vessels) on the Great Lakes and/or Inland Waters. After 30 days of training and observation on towing vessels and the completion of a TOAR (Towing Officer’s Assessment Record), the mariner may serve as a Mate Towing Inland (or Great Lakes, if appropriate).

Requirements

NMC Checklist for Mate 500/1600 Great Lakes and/or Inland
CFR Reference: 46 CFR 11.444 (Mate 1600)
CFR Reference: 46 CFR 11.448 (Mate 500)

RECENCY: 90 days in the past 3 years on vessels of appropriate tonnage

ENGINE DEPARTMENT EXPERIENCE on vessels of appropriate tonnage may be creditable for up to 90 days of the sea service requirements.

Examination

DECK EXAMINATION GUIDE: ESS 2-6. 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.

To Apply for the Credential

Application Procedure

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 4 to 6 weeks and is a combination of lectures and tutorials.  The tuition is good for one year.