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License Renewals/Forms

License Renewals/Forms

License Renewal - Step-by-Step Guide

Renewing your Captain's License requires submitting the correct U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) forms and documentation. Follow the steps below to complete your renewal smoothly and on time.

License Validity & NEW 6-Year Grace Period

  • How long your MMC is valid?
    • Your Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) is valid for 5 years from the date of issue.
    • Updated Grace Period - Based on USCG Policy Letter CG-MMC 01-24
      • Under the updated policy, mariners may renew an expired MMC up to 6 years after its expiration date ➡ without having to retake the original Coast Guard exam.
      • This 6-year window is an administrative grace period for renewal purposes only.
        ⚠ You may NOT work or sail under your license at any point after it expires, even during this extended period.
      • All standard renewal requirements — sea service, drug test, medical exam, convictions form, Pay.gov fees, etc. — still apply.

Recommendation from the National Maritime Center (NMC)
Because the NMC is experiencing delays, they strongly recommend submitting your renewal at least 90 days before expiration.

The Renewal Process Has Two Parts

  1. PART 1 - Prepare Your Paperwork
  2. PART 2 - Submit Your Application to the NMC

Required Coast Guard Forms (for Renewal)

Current forms can be downloaded from the Coast Guard website:https://www.dco.uscg.mil/nmc/forms/

You will generally need:

  • CG-719B - Application
  • CG-719K - Physical Examination
  • CG-719P - Drug Testing
  • CG-719S - Small Vessel Sea Service
  • CG-719C - Convictions (if applicable)

PART 1 - Prepare Your Paperwork

Keep your originals — submit COPIES to the Coast Guard.

  1. Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
    For Renewal Applicants
    ✔ Check the TWIC exemption box at the top of page 4 of CG-719B.
    ✔ No need to include a copy of an expired TWIC.
    For Original Applicants (if applicable)
    ✔ A current TWIC is required.
    ✔ Tell TWIC you are applying for a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).
    ✔ Submit the TWIC receipt with Ticket Number OR a copy of the TWIC card.
    More information: tsa.gov
  2. CG-719B - Application✔ Complete pages 3-5.
    ✔ Originals only: oath on page 4 must be notarized.
    ✔ Renewals: no oath required.
    ✔ Print your name at the bottom of pages 4 and 5.
  3. CG-719S - Sea Service FormsRenewals
    ✔ One form per vessel used for sea service.
    ✔ Must document 360 days in the past 5 years.
    ✔ Provide proof of ownership or owner signature.
    Originals (for reference)
    • OUPV: 360 days, 90 days in past 3 years
    • Master Upgrade: 720 days, 90 days in past 3 years
  4. CG-719P - DOT Drug Test✔ Must be a DOT 5-panel test less than 6 months old.
    ✔ Copies accepted.
    ✔ Consortium members may submit a consortium letter instead.
    ⚠ Medical marijuana is prohibited for MMC holders.
  5. CG-719K - Physical Examination✔ Must be less than 12 months old.
    ✔ Submit a copy of all 10 pages (including instruction pages).
    ✔ On page 3, check Deck under “Endorsement Held or Sought.”
    ✔ USCG Physical is a separate submission and in addition to the License application.
    ✔ Send your completed Physical CG-719K to: Medaip@uscg.mil (This can be sent anytime)
  6. CG-719C - Convictions Form (If Applicable)
    ✔ Required only if you answered “Yes” to conviction questions on CG-719B.
  7. Additional Items for Renewals ✔ Copy of your current license (front & back).
  8. Pay.gov - MMC User Fee PaymentRenewal Fees
    • Officer Renewal: $50
    • Issuance Fee: $45
    • Total: $95
    Instructions
    ✔ Go to Pay.gov → search “USCG MMC User-Fee Payment.”
    ✔ Select your Regional Exam Center (REC).
    ✔ Print and include your receipt with your application.