Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) Card

Eligibility Requirements for Obtaining a TWIC Card

What is the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) used for? 

The National Maritime Center uses the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) as their primary source for information when conducting background investigations. 

A TWIC is a credential for all personnel requiring un-escorted access to secure areas of regulated facilities and vessels, and all mariners holding United States Coast Guard-issued credentials. Individuals who meet TWIC eligibility requirements will be issued a tamper-resistant credential containing the worker's biometric data (fingerprint template) to allow for a positive link between the card and the individual. 

How do I show proof of my TWIC card?

Included with your application package, you must provide evidence that you either hold or have applied for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card. If you have applied and do not have the card in hand yet, submit your receipt. 

📽️ Look over this video that goes over the TWIC card. 

How do I apply for a TWIC card?

To make the TWIC application process smooth and hassle-free, follow these steps:

1. Gather Required Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready before starting the application process
2. Pre-Enroll: You can choose to pre-enroll by using the TSA's online application or complete the entire process in person at an application center
3. Schedule an Appointment: Schedule your appointment online or call (855) 347-8371 on weekdays between 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. While walk-ins are welcome, appointments are given priority.
4. Visit an Application Center: Head to a TWIC application center to finalize the document process and submit the required fee
5. Choose Delivery Method: Once your TWIC is ready, you can have it mailed to your home address or picked up at the application center

You can check your status online at any time. 

Where do I apply for a TWIC card?

A Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is an identification credential issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), containing biometrics of the card holder. 

How much does a TWIC card cost?  

As of July 20, 2021, the fee for a new applicant’s TWIC is $125.25, and it’s valid for five years.  

Workers with current comparable background checks will pay a reduced fee of $93. To be eligible for the reduced rate you must present a valid driver license with a hazardous materials endorsement, or a Free and Secure Trade card. Please note, if you select the reduced rate, your new TWIC card will be valid for five years from the chosen document’s issuance date. 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 if the original is lost, stolen, or damaged is $60. 

What eligibility requirements must I meet to get issued a TWIC card?

You may apply if you are a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, naturalized citizen, or a nonimmigrant alien, asylee, or refugee who is in lawful status. 

Applicants may be ineligible due to: 

• Incomplete or false application information 
• Disqualifying criminal offenses and factors

How do I prove my citizenship or lawful permanent residence? 

Proof of U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent residence can be submitted to the Coast Guard through the Transportation Security Administration with a TWIC application. If the National Maritime Center does not consider the proof adequate, it may require the applicant to supply additional proof to meet the requirement found in 46 CFR 10.221. Guidance on what information can be submitted to resolve this can be located in the citizenship document. 

What is the federal mandate that requires a TWIC?

The federal mandate, 46 CFR 10.203, requires holders of a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) to also possess a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). This regulation outlines the following points:

1. Denial of Applications: Failure to obtain or hold a valid TWIC can result in the denial of an application for an original, renewal, new endorsement, duplicate, or raise of grade of a mariner's credential. Additionally, it may serve as a basis for suspension and revocation under 46 United States Code 7702 and 7703.
2. Primary Identification: While an MMC serves as a certificate of identification, a TWIC must be held by the mariner to whom it was issued and, while valid, serves as the mariner's primary identification document.
3. Verification of Identity: The TWIC must be presented to verify identity when required by an authorized official as identified in 33 CFR 101.515(d).

Adhering to these requirements is essential for mariners to maintain compliance with federal regulations and to ensure the smooth processing of their applications and credentials.