Authority

The Mate 1600 GRT Near Coastal credential authorizes the holder to serve as Mate on any vessels less than 1600 GRT, except Towing Vessels. To serve as Mate on Towing Vessels Near Coastal or Inland, the holder would need 30 days of training and observation on towing vessels on a particular route and completion of a TOAR (Towing Officers Assessment Record).The Mate 500 GRT Near Coastal credential authorizes the holder to serve as Mate on any vessels less than 500 GRT, except Towing Vessels. To serve as Mate on Towing Vessels Near Coastal or Inland, the holder would need 30 days of training and observation on towing vessels on a particular route and completion of a TOAR (Towing Officers Assessment Record).

Requirements

NMC Checklist for Mate 500/1600 Near Coastal
CFR Reference: 46 CFR 11.416 (Mate 1600 NC)
CFR Reference: 46 CFR 11.421 (Mate 500 NC)

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 1-10. 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 that if a mariner holds a Mate 500 NC, no examination is required to raise the tonnage to 1600 NC or unlimited 3rd NC, provided the appropriate sea service requirements are met.

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 6 to 10 weeks and is a combination of lectures and tutorials.  The tuition is good for one year.