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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a US Coast Guard (USCG)-Approved
Course?
Mariners School courses, course materials and
license exams have been approved by the USCG as an alternative
to the regular testing process held at USCG Regional Exam
Centers. The benefit of Mariners School testing is that the
USCG has literally thousands of questions in their database
from which to draw a test. Mariners School uses only a few
hundred questions from that database and all questions are
provided in the student workbook and study guide. All subject
areas are fully covered to ensure a thorough understanding
of all relevant material.
Will I have to take the test at the
USCG Regional Exam Center?
No. Successful completion of the Mariners School
USCG-approved course allows you to test in familiar surroundings
with your fellow students at a Mariners School facility.
How do I get my license?
After successfully completing the course and
exam, bring your Mariners School certificate along with your
completed USCG application to the Regional Exam Center and
the USCG will issue your license. You do not test at the Regional
Exam Center.
Is there a retest policy?
Yes. The test is given in four sections. If
you do not meet the minimum score requirements on any section,
you only need to retest the section(s) where your score was
below the minimum. You can retest after a review of the material
on which you were lacking the necessary knowledge.
Is there a guarantee that a student
will pass the course?
No. However, Mariners School instructors are
all trained professionals who work closely with every student.
Is there anything I have to do besides
taking the Mariners School USCG-approved course to receive
my license?
Yes. There are several USCG requirements. They
include, but are not limited to, the following:
Application Form: Complete the required
sections for an original license. Three character references
must be included. The application, once received by the USCG,
is valid for one year.
Physical Exam Form: This form must be
completed in full. An incomplete form will delay your application.
Failure to meet vision, hearing or general physical condition
requirements does not automatically disqualify an applicant.
Drug Test: All applicants must be certified
"drug free" (marijuana, cocaine, opiates, PCP, and
amphetamines) by having passed a DOT drug test or submitting a letter that the applicant
is currently enrolled in a USCG random drug testing program.
Sea Service Form: Applicants must tabulate
their experience operating vessels on the Sea Service
Form. If necessary, use added copies to account for service
on more than four vessels. One day of service consists of
a minimum of four hours underway, not dockside. You may only
claim one day in a 24-hour period.
Documentation of Sea Service: If sea
time is documented on your own vessel, use state registration,
documentation certificate, bill of sale or insurance papers.
Service on vessels other than your own must be supported by
the vessel owner filling out a Sea Service Form.
Proof of Age and Citizenship:
Must be verified by one of the following:
- Birth certificate (original only)
- Passport (original only)
- Certificate of Naturalization (original only)
- Proper documentation for name change
- Proof of Social Security Number
CPR/First Aid Card(s): A certificate from the American Red Cross or American Heart
Association courses. First Aid: Less than one year old. CPR: Currently valid, but no more than two years old.
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