Assistance Towing Endorsement Explained

Understanding the Towing Endorsement: Commercial Assistance Towing for Licensed Captains

What is a general overview of the Towing Endorsement?

The Assistance Towing Endorsement may be issued to those who hold an OUPV/Six-Pack or Master's license and would like to engage in assisting vessels for a fee. To "commercially assist" other vessels that may be aground, disabled, out of fuel, or experiencing some other malfunction requires an endorsement for Commercial Assistance Towing.  

What would I use my Towing Endorsement for?  

With a Towing Endorsement, you are authorized to perform commercial assistance towing, also known as "towing for hire." This includes services such as towing a disabled vessel back to its homeport, similar to the operations of a TowBoat U.S. operator. This endorsement expands your capabilities as a licensed captain, enabling you to offer critical assistance services on the water.

Where can the Towing Endorsement be issued?  

The Assistance Towing Endorsement is attached to your existing OUPV/Six-Pack or Master's level license and covers those areas of operation. 

Can I get a Towing Endorsement if I were to operate a tugboat?  

The USCG Towing Endorsement is NOT a "towing" license for operating a tugboat or cargo license. You will need to call the Coast Guard at 888-427-5662 for directions on that license.