Grace Period For Coast Guard License Renewal
For mariners navigating the complexities of maintaining their Coast Guard licenses, understanding the renewal process and grace periods is crucial. At Maritime Licensing Agency, we're here to guide you through these important updates to ensure you stay compliant and prepared for your maritime career.
Good news for mariners: The USCG has extended the grace period for renewing your expired Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) from one year to six years. This change, effective from April 26th, 2024, provides greater flexibility and time to renew your license without retaking the complete original exams.
What does this mean for you?
You have six years from the expiration date of your USCG license to renew it, either with sufficient sea days or by passing an open book exam. During this grace period, although you can renew your license as usual, you are not allowed to work with an expired license.
Renewal Without Retaking Complete Exams
How long after its expiration can a Coast Guard credential be renewed without retaking the complete original exams?
Your credential can be renewed within 72 months (6 years) after it expires. Whether you need additional training or open book take-home exams depends on the specific licenses you hold and the amount of sea time you've accumulated in the last five years.
Steps to Renew Your Coast Guard License
For most mariners, renewing your MMC involves:
Filling out the CG-719B application form.
Providing a picture of your most recent MMC.
Submitting a negative drug test result.
Including either a TWIC exemption memo or a renewed TWIC.
Paying the federal fees.
If you have less than 360 days of sea time in the previous five years, starting from the day you submit your application, you will need to take an open book exam provided by the USCG. With 360 days of sea time, you can skip the exam.
Using Maritime Licensing Agency simplifies the renewal process. Contact us and let us help you complete your renewal application easily.
Setting Up the Open Book Test
For domestic renewals of licenses such as Master 100 GRT Near Coastal, Able Seaman Limited, and 2nd Assistant Engineer:
Provide 360 days at sea in the previous five years.
If you lack 360 qualifying sea days, you will receive an Approval to Test letter for an Open Book Take Home Exam, which can be completed using any resources except assistance from another person.
STCW Renewal During the Grace Period
Important Note: The grace period extension does not affect STCW renewal and reinstatement. If you lack 360 days of qualifying STCW sea time in the last five years, consider the following:
Renewing your STCW: Only if someone else covers the renewal courses or you foresee needing it for work soon.
Reinstating your STCW: This is recommended when you need it again, as the process is the same as renewing with less than 360 days of sea time.
After the Grace Period Ends
If you miss the six-year grace period, you can still reinstate your domestic licenses. This process involves a combination of renewal and original license paperwork, including retaking courses and/or exams without needing to provide evidence of sea service.
Document of Continuity
If you're unable to renew your MMC, consider placing your license into continuity. This requires a complete CG-719B form and typically an image of your MMC, ensuring you can reactivate your license when needed without starting from scratch.
At Maritime Licensing Agency, we understand the importance of maintaining your USCG credentials. With the extended grace period, you have more time and flexibility to renew your license, ensuring your career remains on course. For personalized assistance and detailed guidance, visit our website or contact our team by email or phone today.