How Much Does a Boat Captain License Cost?

You have your checklist of Coast Guard requirements, but just how much does a boat captain license cost?

Here’s the short answer: While the cost varies depending on which captain’s license you’re aiming for, you can expect a minimum investment of $850. This includes the course and exam costs, the fees associated with your application, and other license requirements.

Now, let’s look at the long answer. Here’s a breakdown of the total boat captain’s license cost.

Counting the Cost: Mariners Courses

Your investment goes a long way when you get your license through Mariners Learning System. Whether for professional or personal use, you have two options regarding the captain’s license.

You can go for the OUPV/Six-Pack or the 25/50/100-Ton Master captain’s license. Both our OUPV/Six-Pack and 25/50/100-Ton Master courses come with everything you need to succeed.

You’ll get unlimited access to video, audio, and e-book training materials for 12 months. Plus, you can take the final exam any day, any time.

In addition, you’ll receive:

• A two-year MM-SEAS Expert Access membership to simplify the application process
• A full-sized Long Island Sound Training Chart
• An official test packet for your first attempt at the chart plotting final exam
• An MLS carrying bag

The cost for the Six-Pack license is $695, and the Master course and exam is $895. No need to save up before starting your course — you can pay the fee in four interest-free installments.

And don’t worry about surprise fees. Unlike most of our competitors, Mariners Learning System doesn’t charge testing fees or taxes on course packages.

Additional Boat Captain License Costs

Your Mariners Learning System tuition covers the cost of the course and the Coast Guard-approved written exam, but you need to pay some additional fees for other steps of the licensing process.

You’re responsible for the following:

• Physical Examination: If your insurance doesn’t cover this, the cost can be up to $200.
• DOT (Department of Transportation) Drug Test: This typically costs between $75 and $95.
• TWIC Card (Background Check): Through the TSA, this is $125.
• Basic First Aid/Adult CPR Certification: Prices vary depending on where you get your certification. Many community hospitals, local fire departments, and first aid squads offer this course, sometimes for free.
• Application Fee: You’ll pay a $100 application fee plus a $45 issuance fee to the Coast Guard when you submit your application. 
• Boating Experience Documentation: This is FREE! You fill out the small vessel sea service form to document your boating experience.

Whether you choose to go through Mariners Learning System or another organization, you must complete your USCG application and pay all associated costs to get your captain’s license.

Invest in Your Future Today: Get Your Boat Captain License

Getting your license opens the door to countless opportunities that’ll help you earn back the boat captain license cost in no time. Even if you don’t plan to operate your boat commercially, your investment will pay off in the form of knowledge, safety, and experience.

If you’re ready to invest in your future as a USCG-licensed captain, check out our courses today.