What is a Merchant Mariner’s Credential or MMC? (Formerly Known As The Z Card) All mariners employed aboard U.S. merchant vessels greater than 200 Gross Register Tons (Domestic Tonnage), except operators of uninspected passenger vessels, are required to have a valid U.S. Merchant Mariner’s Credential (MMC). A MMC is not a guarantee of finding work, but rather a certification allowing you to work in the shipboard merchant marine industry.
What is a TWIC? The new Transportation Workers Identification Credential issued by the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA). As of April 15 2009 you must have the TWIC before you can obtain a Coast Guard Credential even if you are renewing a document that you currently hold. You can read more and find a enrollment center here: TWIC
What kind of work can I do with a MMC? With a MMC, you may work in the Deck, Engineering, or Steward’s department of a ship depending on the type of Rating for which you apply. The Deck department is concerned with the navigation and operation of a ship. The Engineering department is concerned with the propulsion and maintenance of machinery on a ship. The Steward’s department is concerned with the supplies and food services of a ship.
Can I Sail Deep Sea (Oceans) with a MMC?
Yes, however there are additional requirements for working on deep sea vessels. In addition to your MMC you are required to take a Basic Safety Training Course (BST’s), They are comprised of four certificates, personal survival techniques, fire prevention and fire fighting, elementary first aid, and personal safety and social responsibilities. These courses are available at many Coast Guard approved schools. If you require the courses, we will provide you with a list of schools throughout the country that are approved by the Coast Guard.
Why do I need your service and how much does it cost?
If your application package is not filled out correctly or is missing anything that the Coast Guard requires, it will be delayed or returned to you. This video will make sure it is complete and in order. I have been in the Merchant Marine Industry since 1973. You will need to submit a check or money order with your application made out to the U.S. Coast Guard in the amounts of:
$140 for an Original MMC To the Coast Guard
Or you can pay your fees with a checking account or credit card online at http://www.pay.gov
Be sure to print your receipt and enclose it with your application
How old must I be?
You must be at least 16 years of age before obtaining a Merchant Mariner’s Credential. If you are between the age of 16 and 18, then you must present a notarized statement of consent from a parent or legal guardian providing written permission for you to go to sea.
What additional training is required for service on cruise ships?
If you are going to work on a passenger ship or a passenger ship in a position where your duties are related to the safety of passengers, then you must obtain training to meet Reg. A-V/2 or A-V/3 of the STCW Code. STCW is the acronym for the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers. The training covers assisting passengers, crowd control, passenger safety, and other training directed towards the safety of the passengers and the vessel. This training is not required to obtain the STCW form, but is a requirement of employment and proof of completion must be provided to your employer. Currently, there are no “relaxed assessments” and proof consists of a course completion certificate from a Coast Guard approved or accepted course or under certain circumstances certification from a designated examiner attesting to your proficiency.
When are fingerprints required?
All fingerprinting is now done by the TSA when you apply for your TWIC card
Where do I go to be fingerprinted?
Any of the TWIC enrollment centers TWIC
What do I need to disclose for the criminal record review?
You must document all convictions including DUI/DWI infractions, regardless of how old, regardless of the court in which convicted and regardless of whether or not the conviction has been expunged. Please be ready to submit documentation of any offenses in the form of court records, copies of legal proceedings, or evidence of rehabilitation upon request.
What is required for the National Driver Registry (NDR) check?
You must agree to a check of the NDR for offenses in connection with your operation of a motor vehicle.
What is the NDR check used for?
Your application may be disapproved if information from the NDR check leads the Coast Guard to determine that you cannot be entrusted with the duties and responsibilities of the MMC.