Authority

Requirements
NMC Checklist Apprentice Mate (Steersman)
CFR Reference: 46 CFR 11.466
RECENCY: 90 days in the past 3 years on vessels of appropriate tonnage
Examination
DECK EXAMINATION GUIDE: 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.
Exam Structure Sheets for the Apprentice Mate are as follows:
- ESS 5-9 (Oceans)
- ESS 5-10 (Near Coastal)
- ESS 5-11 (Great Lakes & Inland)
- ESS 5-12 (Western Rivers)
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 2-3 weeks and is a combination of lectures and tutorials. The tuition is good for one year.