re: Captains license Needed?

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License Requirements

The USCG Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV/Six-pack Captain's License) allows the holder to carry up to six paying passengers on uninspected vessels up to 100 gross tons (about 75-90 feet long). These are usually smaller vessels that normally engage in charter fishing, SCUBA diving, or tour cruises. As such, these vessels are limited to six paying passengers plus crew-hence the term "Six-pack." The OUPV License is issued in three forms:

OUPV Inland License: The OUPV Inland license is restricted to operation shoreward of the boundary line, excluding the Great Lakes. As a general rule, the U.S. Boundary Line follows coastal shorelines and across the entrances to small bays, inlets, and rivers. This license is valid on uninspected vessels to 100 gross tons.

•This license requires at least 360 days of Documented Experience in the operation of vessels, with 90 of the 360 days occurring in the last three years. Experience gained prior to 15 years of age may not be counted.


•The Six-pack Inland License can be upgraded to a Near Coastal License once 90 days experience seaward of the U.S. Boundary has been achieved.


OUPV Great Lakes & Inland: 360 total with at least 90 days service on the Great Lakes.

OUPV Near Coastal: This license is valid on vessels up to 100 gross tons and out to 100 nautical miles.

The OUPV Near Coastal License also requires at least 360 days of documented experience in the operation of vessels, 90 of which must be gained seaward of the boundary line. Ninety of the 360 days must be in the last three years. Experience gained prior to the age of 15 will not be counted.

Note: Sea Service experience can be counted on your own vessel. A Small Vessel Sea Service Form and proof of ownership are required. Experience on other people's vessels can also be counted. In this instance, to verify experience claimed and vessel details, a completed Sea Service Form with the owner's signature must accompany the application.

Additional Requirements Include:
•Obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC Card)
•Minimum age: 18 years old
•Pass a Physical Examination
•Take a Drug Test unless enrolled in a USCG - approved random drug testing program for at least 60 of the last 180 days, and with no failure or refusal to participate in a chemical test for dangerous drugs.
•CPR/First Aid training
•Provide Three Character References
•Completion of Mariners Learning System™ USCG-approved OUPV/Six-pack online course
•Completed USCG Original License Application Package

No testing at the USCG Regional Exam Centers is necessary. All testing is done at our facilities.

Upon successful completion of the Mariners Learning System™ online OUPV course, the student studies the materials and takes a proctored exam at one of our Coast Guard approved testing sites. Once the student passes our multiple choice exam, he or she will receive a Mariners Learning System™ certificate recognized by the United States Coast Guard. Simply submit, within one year, the original certificate along with your application package and applicable fees to the USCG Regional Exam Center. Upon their approval of your package, they will send you your original License.