Knowledge

Learn exactly where to submit your captain’s license application in 2026 and which documents the NMC ASAP portal requires in your packet.

Discover why a captain’s license and a Merchant Mariner Credential are the same thing and what it truly takes to qualify for commercial vessel operation.

Understand the 360-day sea service rule for a USCG captain’s license, including the recency window, what counts as a day, and how to file your CG-719S.

Learn which USCG captain’s license type fits your goals and why most students do best by applying for the highest credential they qualify for.

Master Form CG-719B section by section and learn which pages to submit and how the 2024 notary rule change affects your captain’s license application.

Find out why the moment a passenger pays changes your legal requirements and which USCG captain’s license keeps you compliant on the water.

Learn how the 25/50/100 Ton Master’s license works, including tonnage rules, inland and Near Coastal routes, and how it stacks up against the OUPV Six-Pack.

Complete Form CG-719K correctly the first time with a step-by-step breakdown of every section your doctor and you must fill out.

Learn what separates crew, skipper, and master skipper roles on recreational boats and when a Coast Guard captain’s license actually becomes required.

Learn how the Coast Guard evaluates captain’s license medical conditions one applicant at a time and what documentation turns most delays into approvals.