Credential Application Process

The tabs listed on this page will help you with your application process by giving the steps required to obtain the credential requested, a wizard guide, and an application package. The types of applications are as follows:

• Original: The first credential issued to an applicant.
• Renewal: Re-issuance of a current or previously held credential with a new five year expiration date.
• Duplicate: A replacement credential issued containing the same authority, wording, and expiration date as the lost or destroyed credential.
• Raise of Grade: Increasing the level of authority and responsibility associated with a credential.
• Modification (Increase of Scope): Removing limitations previously placed on the credential such as change in horsepower, tonnage limitations, or geographic route.
• Document of Continuity: Documents issued solely to maintain an individual’s eligibility for renewal. The holder is not authorized to work under this document.
• STCW Endorsement: An annotation on a merchant mariner credential that allows a mariner to serve in those capacities listed in 46 CFR 10.109 (d) and serves as evidence that a mariner has met the requirements of STCW.

Use the following steps and guide to apply for an original Merchant Mariner Credential:

• Step 1- If required; obtain your Transportation Workers Identification Credential.
• Step 2- Ensure you meet qualifications for the credential requested. 
• Step 3- Fill out the appropriate forms.
• Step 4- Pay applicable fees.
• Step 5- Send your application and supporting documentation to a local Regional Exam Center.

 

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Use the following steps and guide to apply for a renewal of a Merchant Mariner Credential:

• Step 1- If required; obtain your Transportation Workers Identification Credential.
• Step 2- Ensure qualifications for the credential requested are met.
• Step 3- Fill out the appropriate forms.
• Step 4- Pay applicable fees.
• Step 5- Send your application and supporting documentation to a local Regional Exam Center.

 

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Use the following steps and guide to apply for a duplicate Merchant Mariner Credential:

• Step 1- If required; obtain your Transportation Workers Identification Credential.
• Step 2- Fill out the appropriate forms.
• Step 3- Write an affidavit describing the circumstances surrounding the loss.
• Step 4- If required, pay applicable fees.
• Step 5- Send your application and supporting documentation to a local Regional Exam Center.

 

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Use the following steps and guide to apply for a Raise of Grade:

• Step 1- If required; obtain your Transportation Workers Identification Credential.
• Step 2- Ensure you meet requirements for the credential requested. 
• Step 3- Fill out the appropriate forms.

• Step 4- Pay applicable fees.
• Step 5- Send your application and supporting documentation to a local Regional Exam Center.

 

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Use the following steps and guide to apply for a Modification (Increase in Scope):

• Step 1- If required; obtain your Transportation Workers Identification Credential.
• Step 2- Ensure you meet requirements for the credential requested. 
• Step 3- Fill out the appropriate forms.

• Step 4- Pay applicable fees.
• Step 5- Send your application and supporting documentation to a local Regional Exam Center.

 

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Use the following steps and guide to apply for a Document of Continuity:

• Step 1- Fill out the appropriate application (forms):

• Step 2- Send your application and supporting documentation to a local Regional Exam Center.

"When sending in your application please ensure that you include the original credential you are placing into continuity."

 

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Important Information:

• Documents of Continuity, issued after 4/15/2004, do not expire and are issued solely to maintain an individual's eligibility for renewal. The holder is not authorized to work under this document.
• International Endorsements (STCWs) cannot be placed on a Document of Continuity.

Use the following steps and guide to apply for an STCW endorsement:

• Step 1- Ensure you meet the qualifications for the endorsement requested.
• Step 2- Fill out the appropriate forms.

• Step 3- Send your application and supporting documentation to a local Regional Exam Center.

 

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Disclaimer:

This STCW Application Package is only to be used when applying for an STCW (International Endorsement) alone. If you are applying for a rating and/or officer endorsement at the same time, please see the other application packages listed on the Application Process page.