Take your maritime career to the next level with a Master 100-Ton License. This credential allows you to operate inspected vessels and carry more than six paying passengers—ideal for ferries, tour boats, and other commercial operations.
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What You Can Do With a Master 100-Ton License
With a 100 Ton Master license and the appropriate route endorsement, you’ll be able to:
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Operate inspected vessels carrying more than 6 paying passengers
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Run vessels up to 100 Gross Register Tons (GRT)
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Work on coastal or offshore routes (up to 200 miles offshore with a Near Coastal endorsement)
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Operate on Inland or Great Lakes routes, depending on your sea service
Already Have Your OUPV? Here’s How to Upgrade
If you currently hold a Six-Pack (OUPV) license, upgrading to a Master license is a natural next step—especially if you plan to run larger vessels or carry more passengers.
Here’s how the upgrade process works:
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From OUPV to Master Inland or Near Coastal
You’ll need a minimum of 360 days of sea service, with at least 90 days in the past 3 years. If you meet the requirements, you can upgrade without retaking the full exam—just the additional material related to inspected vessels. -
Increasing Tonnage (25, 50, or 100 GRT)
If you already hold a 25 or 50 Ton license and have gained experience on larger vessels, you may qualify for a higher tonnage based on the size of vessels you’ve worked on and how long you’ve served on them. -
Upgrading Your Route Endorsement
Gained more sea time on Near Coastal or Great Lakes waters? You might qualify to upgrade your route endorsement.
We’re happy to review your credentials and help determine what you qualify for.
Key Requirements
To qualify for a Master license, you’ll need to meet the following:
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Sea Service: At least 360 days of documented sea time, with 90 days in the past 3 years. Tonnage (25, 50, or 100 GRT) depends on vessel size and time served.
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Route Endorsement: Based on where your sea time was earned (Inland, Great Lakes, or Near Coastal).
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Certificate of Inspection (COI): Determines the number of passengers your vessel can legally carry.
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Minimum Age: 19 years old
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TWIC Card: Transportation Worker Identification Credential
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Medical Certificate: Valid U.S. Coast Guard medical certificate
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Drug Testing: Proof of enrollment in a DOT-compliant drug testing program or recent negative test
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CPR/First Aid Certification: Must be current
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U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident Status
How We Help
We take the stress out of the application and upgrade process so you can focus on your work.
Our service includes:
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One-on-one review of your sea service and qualifications
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Complete application preparation and submission
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Coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard on your behalf
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Guidance on medical certificates, TWIC, and drug testing
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Exam prep resources and course support