License Requirements
The USCG Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV/Six-Pack Captain's License) allows the holder to carry up to six paying passengers on uninspected vessels up to 100 gross tons (about 75-90 feet long). These are usually smaller vessels that normally engage in charter fishing, SCUBA diving, or tour cruises. As such, these vessels are limited to six paying passengers plus crew-hence the term "Six-Pack." This license is valid on uninspected vessels to 100 gross tons.
Types of OUPV Licenses
The OUPV/Six-Pack Captain's License is issued in three forms. This is based on your documented boating experience; our online 6-pack captain's license course and exam will remain the same:
OUPV Inland License: The license holder is restricted to operation shoreward of the boundary line, excluding the Great Lakes. As a general rule, the U.S. Boundary Line follows coastal shorelines and across the entrances to small bays, inlets, and rivers.
- This license requires at least 360 days of documented experience in the operation of vessels, with 90 of the 360 days occurring in the last three years.
- The Six-Pack Inland License can be upgraded to a Near Coastal License once 90 days of experience seaward of the U.S. Boundary has been achieved.
OUPV Great Lakes & Inland: The license holder is restricted to operation shoreward of the boundary line, including the Great Lakes.
- This license requires at least 360 days of documented experience in the operation of vessels, with 90 of those days on the Great Lakes. Additionally, out of the 360, 90 days occurring in the last three years.
OUPV Near Coastal: This license is valid on U.S. inland waterways and up to 100 nautical miles out.
- This license requires at least 360 days of documented experience in the operation of vessels, 90 of which must be gained seaward of the boundary line. Ninety of the 360 days must be in the last three years.
Note: Sea Service experience can be counted on your own vessel. A Small Vessel Sea Service Form and proof of ownership are required. Experience on other people's vessels can also be counted. In this instance, to verify experience claimed, and vessel details, a completed Sea Service Form with the owner's signature must accompany the application. Experience gained prior to 16 years of age may not be counted.
Additional Requirements
- Obtain a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC Card)
- Minimum age: 18 years old (Legal to Work in the U.S. Required)
- Pass a Physical Examination
- Pass a DOT Drug Test unless enrolled in a USCG-approved random drug testing program for the last 185 days, and with no failure or refusal to participate in a chemical test for dangerous drugs.
- Adult CPR/Basic First Aid training
- Completion of Mariners Learning System™ USCG-approved OUPV/Six-Pack online course and final exam
- Complete a USCG Original License Application Package
No testing at the USCG Regional Exam Centers is necessary. All testing is done ONLINE through the MLS account.
Upon successful completion of the Mariners Learning System™ online OUPV/Six-Pack captain's license course, the student studies the materials and takes our proctored exam online. Once the student passes our multiple-choice exam, they will receive a Mariners Learning System™ certificate recognized by the United States Coast Guard. Simply submit, within one year, the original certificate along with the application package and applicable fees to the USCG Regional Exam Center. Upon their approval of your package, they will mail the license.
