TWIC Card Required for Captain's License Applications

Understanding the Purpose and Importance of a TWIC Card

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Common Questions About Getting a TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) Card

1 WHAT IS A TWIC CARD USED FOR?

The Transportation Worker Identification Credential or TWIC card is a vital security measure that will ensure individuals who pose a threat do not gain unescorted access to secure areas of the nation's maritime transportation system.

TWIC was established by Congress through the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) and is administered by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and also the U.S. Coast Guard.

TWIC cards are tamper-resistant biometric credentials issued to workers who require unescorted access to secure areas of ports, vessels, outer continental shelf facilities, and all credentialed merchant mariners. Over one million workers, including U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captains, longshoremen, port employees, and others, are required to obtain a TWIC card.

2 HOW DO YOU GET A TWIC CARD?

To obtain a TWIC card, an individual must provide biographic and biometric information such as fingerprints, sit for a digital photograph, and successfully pass a security threat assessment conducted by TSA.

Pre-enrollment is recommended as it's designed to save the applicant time by enabling them to provide their biographical information and make an appointment for in-person enrollment.

TSA's turn-around goal is to give the applicant a response within 60 days of enrollment. Once the applicant has been notified of successful issuance, the card should arrive at their address or enrollment center within 10 days. 

3 HOW MUCH DOES A TWIC CARD COST?

The TWIC card fee is $125.25, and it's valid for five years. Workers with current comparable background checks will pay a reduced fee of $93. If workers are eligible to pay the lower price, their TWIC will expire five years from the date of the comparable credential. The cost for a replacement TWIC card, if the original is lost, stolen, or damaged, is $60.

4 WHICH CAPTAIN'S LICENSE REQUIRES A TWIC CARD? 

The OUPV/Six-Pack license and the 25, 50, and 100-Ton Master licenses require a TWIC card as part of the application.

5 DO I NEED A TWIC CARD TO RENEW MY CAPTAIN'S LICENSE?

The requirement for a TWIC card may be waived when you apply for a captain’s license renewal. If you have a valid TWIC card, you can include it with your renewal application, but if your TWIC card has expired since you got your license, you may not need to renew it.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS ON THE APPLICATION PROCESS?

We're committed to easing your path through the application process. Take advantage of these additional resources to streamline your journey:

• Watch more videos on the application process
• Read over this guide: Why Become a USCG Licensed Captain
• Shop our captain's license courses