For captains ready to run larger vessels or carry more than six passengers. Complete your 80-hour USCG-approved course and exams 100% online, at your own pace.
$699
Qualify for 25, 50 or 100 gross tons.
Move beyond the six-passenger limit.
Charter, tour, ferry and launch work.
Our exams replace the Coast Guard's.
This 80-hour course covers Navigation, Rules of the Road, Deck Safety, and the practical knowledge required of a professional vessel operator.
Pass our exams and you receive a course certificate accepted by the Coast Guard in place of the corresponding Coast Guard examinations. No travel, no testing center.
Every approved course leads to the same Coast Guard credential. Ours is $699.
When you get stuck, an experienced captain-instructor helps you through it.
You don't need your sea time or paperwork finished to begin. Train now, complete the rest as you go.
Operate inspected passenger vessels within the limits of your credential.
Carry more than six passengers on qualifying charter operations.
Move into professional vessel operations beyond six-pack charters.
Qualify for 25, 50 or 100 tons based on your documented sea service.
1
Check out online and begin the course immediately.
2
Work through 80 hours at your own pace, then pass our USCG-approved exams online.
3
Submit your course certificate with your application to the National Maritime Center within one year.
You don’t need to finish every Coast Guard requirement before you begin. Start training now and complete your sea service, medical, TWIC, drug testing and application while you work through the program. Your course certificate must be submitted to the Coast Guard within one year of finishing the course.
Requirements depend on the route you seek. A Master Inland or Great Lakes endorsement generally requires 360 days of qualifying service. A Master Near Coastal endorsement requires 720 days, with some inland service accepted toward that total. At least 90 days must have been earned within the past seven years. Your qualifying vessel experience determines whether your license is issued at 25, 50 or 100 GRT.
You must be at least 19 years old to receive a 25, 50 or 100 GRT Master endorsement. OUPV applicants may qualify at 18. Sea service earned before age 16 is generally not creditable.
You must meet Coast Guard medical standards and provide acceptable drug-testing documentation. A standalone DOT five-panel drug test must be completed within 185 days of your application, or you may show participation in a compliant random drug-testing program.
You must obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential, which includes a TSA security threat assessment. Eligible TWIC holders can also use the number on their card for TSA PreCheck.
You need a valid CPR and First Aid certification from a USCG-approved provider such as the American Red Cross or American Heart Association.
Submit a complete application package, including all required documentation, forms and fees, to the National Maritime Center online.
The Coast Guard permits inland service to substitute for up to 360 days of the 720-day total.
Become a Professional Captains Association member and unlock exclusive pricing on Confident Captain courses, plus ongoing professional resources, industry updates and tools for your career.
“[Paste a real customer review here.]”
[Name, home port, license earned]
“[Paste a real customer review here.]”
[Name, home port, license earned]
“[Paste a real customer review here.]”
[Name, home port, license earned]
You’ll need these for the course. They’re available from your local marine retailer or online.
80 hours, fully online. Start anytime.
$699
Sign up for more details.
