Charter Boat Captain Information - USCG National Maritime Center

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National Maritime Center (NMC)
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Charter Boat Captain

If you currently do not have a license and are interested in becoming a “Charter Boat Captain,” you can achieve this goal by obtaining a variety of licenses, as detailed below.

General Requirements for Licenses Checklist
Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel (OUPV) or “6-Pack” License – This license is most appropriate for un-inspected passenger vessels which by law are limited to six or less passengers for hire. These are usually smaller vessels and normally engage in charter fishing, whale watching, SCUBA diving, and tour cruises. This license is limited to near coastal waters only not more than 100 miles offshore and is not valid for international voyages.
OUPV Limited License – Also known as Limited Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels. This is commonly known as a “launchtender license” and is issued to those employed by organizations such as yacht clubs, marinas, formal camps, and educational institutions, limited to the specific activity and locality.
Limited Master License (less than 100 gross register tons) – This is the same license as the OUPV Limited License, but is issued to those who operate Coast Guard inspected vessels.
Master, 100 Tons License (less than 100 gross register tons and only for 25, 50, or 100 gross register tons) – This license is most appropriate for operating small passenger vessels that hold a USCG Certificate of Inspection and carry more than six passengers. Typical vessels include charter boats (head boats), small ferries, dinner boats, and whale watch vessels.

Please open the above links to view the requirements for each licenses.

NMC Customer Service Center: 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662) email click here (IASKNMC)

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Last Modified 11/4/2009