A career on the high seas sounds exciting. You can earn a lot, travel worldwide, and use your skills and training to achieve your professional goals. If you want to become a licensed mariner, you’ll need qualifications. Here are some of the steps involved in getting the certifications you need. Let’s discuss those steps and requirements and how hiring a maritime licensing agency can help you.
Step 1: Consider Your Career Path
Before becoming a licensed mariner, time to make final decisions about your career path. You can work as an engineer or a deck officer or explore other positions within the maritime industry. Each one has requirements and certifications, so choose the path that best aligns with and makes full use of your skills and interests.
Step 2: Complete the Necessary Training
After choosing a career path, complete the necessary training. Expect some coursework and on-the-job training, though that still will depend on the position you apply for. Some training types include:
- Basic Safety Training which covers basic safety procedures and equipment. You’ll learn about personal protective equipment, fire prevention and response, and survival techniques.
- STCW Training is conducted by the International Convention. Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) establishes minimum standards for mariners’ certification and training worldwide. STCW training can include Basic Safety Training, Advanced Firefighting, and Medical First Aid courses.
- Advanced Training depends on the position. You may be required to complete advanced training in engineering, navigation, or management before you can take this course.
Step 3: Gain Sea Time
To qualify for certification, you’ll need to gain sea time. This, again, depends on the position and certification. If you want to hold a Merchant Mariner Credential, you must spend 90 days of sea time. See if that condition applies to you.
Step 4: Pass the Exams
Once the training is complete, and you’ve gained the required sea time, pass the required exams. Once you do, you’ll be certified. The exams are likely to include written and practical components. Be sure to cover a range of topics related to your position when you review for the test.
Step 5: Obtain Your Certification
Once all the previous steps are done, you can obtain your certification. Some common certification types include:
- Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC): The MMC is a certification given by the United States Coast Guard. It improves your employability in the maritime industry. The MMC includes endorsements for different positions and types of vessels.
- Engineer License: Work as an engineer on a vessel with an engineer license. You'll need to obtain an engineer license from the Coast Guard.
- Captain's License: To work as a captain or mate on a vessel, you'll need to obtain a captain's license from the Coast Guard.
Why Use a Maritime Licensing Agency?
Navigate the process of becoming a licensed mariner easier. If you don’t want to spend more time than you have to, hire a maritime licensing agency. They can expedite the process, help you understand the business, and provide excellent support.
