Contact the Coast Guard

by Bob Figular May 02, 2024 2 min read

Connect with the National Maritime Center: Accessing Assistance

How can someone get in contact with the National Maritime Center?

You can contact the National Maritime Center (NMC), the division of the Coast Guard responsible for issuing captain's licenses, using the options below.

Call the NMC

(888) 427-5662

Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. EST

Chat with the NMC

Live chat sessions are available through the NMC's website. Their chatbot is available 24/7.

Start a Chat →

Email the NMC

[email protected]

For general inquiries only.

Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. EST

Visit the NMC Website

Access information and resources on the National Maritime Center's official website.

Visit the NMC Website →

Check the National Maritime Center's Contact page for the most up-to-date information.

What are some helpful tips when contacting the National Maritime Center?

To get help from the National Maritime Center (NMC) as quickly as possible, keep these tips in mind:

Start with Live Chat

We recommend using Live Chat first, since it is often the quickest and easiest way to get help.

The NMC's chatbot is also available 24/7 and may be able to answer common questions right away.

Call Early in the Morning

If you prefer to call, try contacting the Customer Service Center early in the morning.

Their busiest times are usually around midday, so calling earlier may help you avoid longer wait times.

Check Your Application Status Online

Before reaching out, use the NMC's Check Your Status tool on their website.

This is often the fastest way to see the current status of your application without waiting for phone or email support.

Use the Credential Verification Tool

If you need to confirm whether a credential is valid, the NMC's Credential Verification Tool is a quick and convenient option.

Email for Status Updates or General Questions

If you are unable to reach the NMC by phone or chat, you can email [email protected] for a status update or general questions.

To help avoid delays, include:

  • Your full name
  • Your mariner reference number
  • Any relevant details about your question or application

Please Note: Response times may vary depending on email volume.

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