You are so close to having your captain's license in hand 🥳
As of January 26, 2026, the National Maritime Center (NMC) now uses NMC Application Submission and Additional Information Portal (ASAP) as the primary method for submitting applications and additional documents for both new and existing applications. You will receive an email confirmation once your files have been successfully submitted.
Submission options, such as email or fax, will not be accepted.
Watch the video below to learn more about ASAP, and follow a step-by-step tutorial on submitting your application and documents through the portal.
RECOMMENDATION! We strongly suggest submitting your complete application packet to the Coast Guard at least 90 days before your Certificate of Completion expires. This buffer allows ample time to address any potential follow-up questions, missing documents, or additional requirements the Coast Guard may request - helping you avoid last-minute issues or risks of approaching your expiration date.
You will be submitting all documentation, except the CG-719K for the Medical Certificate, through the Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC) within the NMC Application Submission and Additional Information Portal (ASAP).
How to Complete the MMC Document Upload Portal
Use the MMC Document Upload Portal to submit your complete application package. Follow the steps below to ensure your documents are successfully uploaded.
Before You Begin
Step-by-Step Instructions
Important Notes
For your CG-719K, you will be applying for your Medical Certificate under the Medical Certificate (MED Cert) within the NMC Application Submission and Additional Information Portal (ASAP).
How to Upload Form 719K Using the Medical Document Upload Portal
Use the Medical Document Upload Portal to submit your completed CG-719K Medical Certificate. Follow the steps below to ensure your medical document is uploaded successfully.
Before You Begin
If you are unsure which sections are required, refer to the 719K example with required fields highlighted, linked at the top of the page.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Important Notes
Email submission options are no longer accepted. To ensure the fastest and most reliable processing, applicants should submit all materials through the Application Submission and Additional Information Portal (ASAP) whenever possible.
You cannot submit your application packet via fax.
If you wish to mail in your application, please contact the Coast Guard.
Please allow 1 week for USPS delivery. Then contact the National Maritime Center's Customer Service Center at (888) 427-5662 to confirm receipt.
Typically, you will receive an email with a tracking number that lets you monitor the status of your application.
Handwritten forms are acceptable, as long as they can be read and understood by the NMC staff. Your full name and contact information are critical. This will allow them to reach you if any item needs correction.
Coast Guard statistics indicate that most delays in the licensing process are due to mistakes or oversights in the preparation of the application paperwork.
If you submit an incomplete application (719B or 719K), you will either receive an awaiting information (AI) letter or the application will be returned to you, and YOUR CREDENTIAL WILL BE DELAYED!
The turnaround time depends on the license you are applying for. For original captain’s license applications, it normally takes between 4 to 6 weeks to be issued a license. The National Maritime Center is advising applicants to submit up to 90 days in advance.
The Coast Guard website has a Merchant Mariner Application Status form on their website, which you can use to check the status of your captain’s license application.
Follow these general preparation guidelines and information:
Questions regarding the submission process should be directed to the Customer Service Center at 1-888- IASKNMC (427-5662) or via the live chat option on the NMC website.
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