Captain’s License Requirements
Which Captain’s Course is right for you?
Master 25/50/100 Ton
Captain’s License
The US Coast Guard Master 100 Gross Tons License allows its holder to captain any vessel ranging from 25 to 100 Gross Tons, regardless of whether or not it is inspected. Successful completion of our Master 100 GT course and exam satisfies all 100 Ton educational requirements and prepares you to obtain a US Coast Guard-issued master’s license ranging from 25 to 100 GT.
Operate Vessels Including:
- High-speed ferries
- Whale watching boats
- Charter boats carrying over six passengers
- Vessels of other sizes and capacities up to 100 tons
OUPV (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels) Captain’s License
The US Coast Guard OUPV (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels) License allows boaters to operate an uninspected vessel of up to 100 Gross Tons.
Often referred to as a Six-Pack License, the certification allows captains to operate boats carrying up to six passengers.
Course Prerequisites
More details about course prerequisites, including Licensing Forms & Checklists can be found here.
Course | Master 25/50/100 Course | USCG OUPV / 6-Pack Online Course |
---|---|---|
Age Requirement | At least 19 years of age | At least 18 years of age |
Required Sea-Time | At least 360 days of sea-time experience:
Master Inland/Mate Near Coastal Prerequisites
Master Near Coastal (to 100NM offshore) Prerequisites
| At least 360 days of sea time experience:
OUPV Inland: 360 days in the operation of vessels OUPV Great Lakes: 360 days of service, OF WHICH 90 days operating vessels on Great Lakes waters OUPV Near Coastal: 360 days in the operation of vessels, OF WHICH 90 days of service on Ocean, Near Coastal or Great Lakes waters |
Language Requirement | Firm understanding of the English language | Firm understanding of the English language |
US Citizenship | Yes | No |
Physical Exam | Yes | Yes |
Drug Test | Yes | Yes |
First Aid Certification | Yes | Yes |
CPR Certification | Yes | Yes |
Character References | Yes – 3 | No |
Continue your lifelong learning.
Learn more about the benefits of joining our Professional Captains Association.