This US Coast Guard-Approved Course paves the way for you to obtain your Merchant Marine Credential.
Online OUPV (6-Pack) Captain’s Course – US Coast Guard Approved
This course is designed for mariners seeking to obtain a US Coast Guard-issued OUPV (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels) license, also known as the 6-Pack License. With this license, you’ll be authorized to captain vessels carrying up to six passengers, perfect for charter fishing, sailing tours, and other small commercial vessel operations.
Confident Captain’s US Coast Guard-approved 56-hour OUPV course includes all the required training and an official USCG-approved exam. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a completion certificate, paving the way to your Merchant Marine Credential. Start your journey toward becoming a licensed captain with our convenient online program!
To earn your USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (also known as a Captain’s License), you’ll need to meet the following criteria in your application and complete this course. While it’s not necessary to have all the requirements before starting the course, you must fulfill them within one year of course completion for acceptance by the US Coast Guard. Refer to all details and apply online via the US Coast Guard MMC website.
The candidate must be 19 years of age to enroll in a Master’s course
All candidates must have a firm understanding of the English language
Sea Service Experience
You need a minimum of 360 days of sea service experience, with at least 90 days within the last 3 years. The sea service must be on vessels of appropriate size for the license you’re applying for (see below for specific details). Learn more about documenting your sea time from the National Maritime Center.
Age Requirements
All candidates must be at least 18 for OUPV.
All experience documented in sea time must be obtained after the age of 16.
Physical and Drug Test
You must pass a USCG-approved physical examination and provide proof of enrollment in a USCG-approved drug testing program or pass a drug test within the last 6 months.
TWIC Card
You must obtain a TWIC card, which includes a security background check conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Fun fact: this also gets you TSA Pre-Check when flying.
CPR and First Aid Certification
You must have a valid CPR and First Aid certification from a USCG-approved provider such as American Red Cross or American Heart Association.
Application Package
Submit a complete application package, including all required documentation, forms, and fees, to the National Maritime Center online.
Any questions about the process?
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• Weems & Plath #176 Marine Navigation Ultralight Divider
• Weems & Plath Marine Navigation Parallel Ruler (Aluminum Arms, 15-Inch)
• Chapman Piloting & Seamanship 67th Edition (Chapman Piloting and Seamanship)
• NOAA Training Chart: 13205 TR – Block Island Sound
• NOAA Training Chart: 12221TR – Chesapeake Bay
• NOAA Training Chart: 12354TR – Long Island Sound
These can be purchased at your local marine retailer or online.
You do not need these materials for the Auxiliary Sailing or Assistance Towing Endorsement courses.
Confident Captain
344 Aquidneck Avenue
Middletown, RI 02840
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Simply sign up to instantly download a sample set of Rules 20-30 will give you a sense of what you can expect from our online course.