Your One-Stop USCG Licensing Toolkit
Whether you’re piecing together your very first OUPV application or fine-tuning a Master upgrade, this page is built to keep every step crystal clear. With one-click downloads for the Coast Guard’s “big three” forms— CG-719B credential application, CG-719S sea-service record, and the CG-719K medical report—along with links to TWIC enrollment, drug-test compliance, and other must-have documents, we're sure you'll find some resourceful information here. Still haven't found the answers you're looking for or need more than a quick answer? Tap the Contact Us button below and we’ll steer you through special-case scenarios.
Core USCG Forms for All License Types
☑️ Download CG-719B: Application for Merchant Mariner Credential. Used for: All applications—original, renewal, upgrade, and endorsements
This is the main form that kicks off the process.
☑️ Download CG-719S: Small Vessel Sea Service Form.
Used for: OUPV, Master, or upgrades requiring sea service. This verifies your time on the water. Multiple forms may be submitted.
☑️ Download CG-719K: Medical Evaluation Report Documents. Used for: Original licenses, upgrades, and most renewals and will be completed by a medical provider. Required to verify you're physically qualified.
Note: For entry-level or some lower-tier endorsements, the CG-719K/E (shorter version) might be acceptable—but the full K is more common for captain-level licenses.
☑️ Information for the TWIC Enrollment can be found here.
Used for: All new license applications and most renewals. You’ll either submit a copy of your TWIC or proof of having applied for one.
☑️ Click here for more information about the Drug Test Compliance Letter. Used for: All applications
Not a Coast Guard form, but a required component. It must come from a SAMHSA-certified facility and be in USCG-approved wording.
Additional or Situation-Specific Forms
☑️ Download CG-719P: Periodic Drug Testing Form.
Used for: Ongoing compliance or if requested during renewal/upgrade. May be used if part of a marine employer's program.
☑️ Download CG-719K/E: Entry-Level Medical Form.
Used for: Lower-level endorsements or STCW renewals. Not typically used for OUPV/Master licenses but may apply to support-level credentials.
☑️ Download information about Statement of Service. Used for: Military sea time or employer-verified commercial sea service. This can be in place of or in addition to CG-719S.
☑️ Certificates for Course Completion
Used for: When testing exemption is claimed
If the mariner passed a USCG-approved course (like OUPV), the certificate gets submitted instead of sitting for the Coast Guard exam.
☑️ Assessment Sheets (NVICs)
Used for: STCW, Engineering, and Tankerman endorsements. Some upgrades or endorsements require signed assessments from a qualified assessor. These come from NVIC (Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circulars).
Common FAQ's
▶️ License Basics
Q: How do I know if I qualify for a captain’s license?
If you have at least 360 days of documented sea service, you're likely eligible for an OUPV (6-pack) license. Requirements vary by license type—get in touch if you need help figuring it out.
Q: What’s the difference between OUPV and Master 100 Ton?
OUPV allows you to carry up to 6 paying passengers. Master licenses allow you to operate inspected vessels with more passengers and offer more flexibility for larger vessels.
Q: Can I use time from a recreational boat?
Yes, if you're the owner or operator, and you have proof (like registration and logs).
Q: Do I need sea time on a specific type of boat?
No, sea time can be from various vessel types—recreational, commercial, or government. What matters is that you're the owner/operator or have a signed record from the vessel’s owner.
Q: Is there an age requirement?
Yes, you must be at least 18 for the OUPV and 19 or older for a Master license.
▶️ Application Process
Q: How long does the USCG application take to process?
Processing times vary, but most are completed within 2–6 weeks. Submitting complete and accurate paperwork helps avoid delays.
Q: What happens if I make a mistake on a form?
That’s why we're here! We catch and correct any errors before submission. If the Coast Guard flags something, we help you resolve it.
Q: Can I apply without all my documents at once?
No, the Coast Guard requires a complete application to begin review. We’ll help you gather everything and submit it in one complete package.
▶️ License Renewals
Q: What if my license expired?
You have a 1-year grace period to renew. After that, you’ll likely need to reapply from scratch—but don’t worry, we can help either way.
Q: Do I need to take another physical and drug test to renew?
Yes, unless your most recent ones were within the acceptable timeframe. We’ll help you figure out what’s still valid and what needs updating.
Q: Can I keep working while my renewal is processing?
Only if your license hasn’t expired yet. Once it's expired, you're no longer authorized to operate as a credentialed mariner.
▶️ Medical & TWIC
Q: Do I need a TWIC card?
Yes, for nearly all new license applications and most renewals. You'll need to apply or renew your TWIC through the TSA.
Q: What if I take prescription medications—can I still qualify?
In many cases, yes. It depends on the type of medication. A medical practitioner will review your form and determine eligibility.
Q: How recent does my medical exam need to be?
Your CG-719K medical form should be current (typically within the last 12 months). We’ll make sure you’re using the right version and help you get scheduled if needed.
Need More Help? Reach out!
We’re here to walk you through it
Course Provider
Our local partner with courses offered in the Port Charlotte and Sarasota, Florida area:
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Premier Maritime Training Center
➤ Offers OUPV, Master, and more.
Other Course Locations Within Florida
For internal use and additional reference tools, click here.