Security Levels

National Maritime Center (NMC)
Mariner Licensing and Documentation (MLD)

Basic information about how STCW affects different individual area related to the marine industry, listed below:

How STCW affects you as a mariner?

How does STCW-95 differ from STCW-78 and to whom does STCW-95 apply?

The International Code on Standards for Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers came into force in 1978 (STCW-78). The U.S. licensing scheme was designed to closely conform to STCW-78. The 1995 amendments to the Code (STCW-95) added more "hands-on" demonstrations of your skill & ability to prove that you are qualified to serve aboard seagoing vessels. The biggest change with STCW-95 is that it formalizes the documentation of your ability to perform these tasks. STCW-95 applies to all present & future mariners who wish to sail beyond the boundary lines of the United States on commercial vessels. (The "boundary lines" essentially separate the bays, harbors & other inland waters from the oceans.) The U.S. exempts mariners from STCW requirements who serve on small passenger vessels inspected under subchapters T and K and other vessels of less than 200 Gross tons sailing on near coastal, domestic voyages. A near coastal, domestic voyage is one that begins and ends in a U.S. port, does not touch at a foreign port or enter foreign waters, and is not more than 200 miles from shore.

How do I provide documentation of my compliance with STCW-95 requirements?

Completing a Coast Guard approved training course may be the least complicated way to meet the additional STCW-95 qualification requirements. You may also demonstrate your knowledge & ability for STCW "covered" tasks before a Designated Examiner (DE). This is an individual qualified to observe your performance & assess your competence. (This process is in the early stages of development & may not be available to you yet.)

What does STCW-95 certification consist of?

If you meet the requirements of STCW-95, you will be issued an "STCW 95 Endorsement Form or Certificate". Your present license or document is a separate credential from this form. You may still maintain your license or document without it, however, you will be essentially limited to "domestic only" employment.

How does STCW-95 apply to an "existing mariner"?

If you began training or service prior to August 1, 1998, then you have one time "gap-closing" requirements to meet prior to February 1, 2002. You may upgrade your license or document (and obtain the STCW-95 form) prior to this date under the current U.S. regulations without meeting the additional requirements of STCW-95, however, you will only be issued the STCW-78 form. The additional requirements still apply if you want the STCW-95 form. After January 31, 2002, you will be required to fully meet the requirements of STCW-95 and obtain the STCW-95 form.

How does STCW-95 apply to a "new mariner"?

If you began training or service on or after August 1, 1998, then you must be part of an organized training program approved by the Coast Guard in order to obtain the STCW-95 certification.

How STCW affects you as a company official?

What are my responsibilities as an owner or operator?

If you own or operate a seagoing, U.S. documented, self-propelled vessel, Title 46 Code of Federal Regulations Part 15 requires that:
1. Crewmembers serving aboard your vessels hold appropriate STCW certification;
2. Your vessels be adequately manned;
3. You keep records of crew experience, training, competency, and medical fitness; and
4. You provide ship specific familiarization and coordination training or instruction to the crew.

Where can I find additional information?

You can find more specific information on owner/operator STCW roles and responsibilities within this STCW web page and by connecting here to NVIC 4-97.

How STCW affects you as the master of a vessel?

What are my responsibilities as the master of a vessel?

If you are the master of a vessel that operates beyond the boundary line (seagoing), you must ensure that not only you have obtained STCW certification, but also that your crewmembers have as well. In addition, Title 46 Code of Federal Regulations Part 15 requires that:
1. You ensure observance of the principles concerning watchkeeping set out in STCW regulation VIII/2 and section A-VIII-2 of the STCW Code;
2. You ensure observance of appropriate rest periods and work hours and post watch schedules where they are easily accessible; and
3. Your watch schedules must take into account rest requirements as well as port rotations and changes in the vessel’s itinerary.

How do I ensure that my crewmembers meet the STCW requirements?