Did you receive an email or letter from the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) notifying you that your application was rejected? If so, you’re not alone, and the process is about to get even stricter.
Starting December 1, 2024, the USCG will reject applications for original, renewal, and upgrade credentials if they are incomplete. This includes applications for your OUPV renewal, Six-Pack license, or 100-Ton license. You can read the USCG’s official notification regarding application rejections here.
When an application is rejected, mariners must resubmit the entire application package after correcting the issue. Common rejection reasons include:
- Issues with or missing TWIC
- Errors on the CG-719B (application form)
- Missing drug test results
- Unpaid evaluation fees
- Issues with the CG-719C (conviction statement)
This blog post focuses on how to resolve problems with your CG-719B application form, one of the most common reasons for rejection.
Common Reasons for CG-719B Rejections
The USCG expects the CG-719B application form to be error-free. Common mistakes include:
- Failure to Sign Page 4
Missing signatures are a leading cause of rejection. Double-check that you’ve signed every required section. - Unclear License Request in Section II
If the USCG doesn’t understand the credential or endorsement you’re requesting, your application will be rejected. - Missed National Driver Registry Box
Forgetting to check the box on page 4 is a small mistake with big consequences. - Using an Outdated Form
While forms expiring in 2021 or 2026 are still valid, submitting older versions could result in rejection. - Missing Affidavit for Duplicate Credentials
If you’re applying for a duplicate credential, you must include a completed affidavit of loss.
If you’ve made any of these errors, the USCG will reject your entire application. You’ll need to correct the mistakes, complete a new CG-719B form, and resubmit your entire application package.
How to Fix Your CG-719B Application
Start Fresh
We recommend downloading and completing a fresh CG-719B form. You can find the latest version of the CG-719B here.
Address Section II Carefully
Section II is where you request an original, renewal, or upgrade. This section often trips up mariners. If the USCG doesn’t clearly understand your request, whether it is for a private boat captain’s license, OUPV renewal, or 100-Ton license upgrade, your application will be rejected.
Resubmit the Entire Application
The USCG does not retain any part of a rejected application, so you’ll need to resend the entire package. This includes all updated forms, supporting documents, and applicable fees.
Avoiding Future Rejections
To fix any of these items, you will need to fill out your CG-719B with the mistakes corrected. Most mistakes will be pretty straightforward to correct.
The biggest place where we see mariners get stuck is at Section II. This is where you make your request for the original, renewal, or upgrade that you wish to be evaluated for. If the USCG didn’t understand what you requested, they will not accept your application.
Once you have updated your CG-719B, you will need to re-send your entire application to the USCG. They will not accept only your updated CG-719B form, because when they reject your application, they don’t keep any of the paperwork on file.
For a seamless experience, consider using MM-SEAS. Our service is designed to help mariners submit error-free applications for original, renewal, or upgrade credentials. Here’s how it works:
- Create a free account at MM-SEAS.
- Upload your documents and information.
- Click “Submit Application” for our team to review and process your submission.
Our service ensures that your CG-719B form is perfectly filled out. You’ll receive the form ready to sign, and we’ll handle the rest.
Pricing:
- $399 for a Stress-Free MMC. We pay the Coast Guard's fees at submission and charge your card.
Additional Resources
Need help with other rejection reasons? Check out these guides:
- Application Rejected Due to TWIC Issues
- Application Rejected Due to Missing Conviction Statement
- Application Rejected because of Missing Evaluation Fee
- Application Rejected because of Drug Test Issue
For mariners applying for a Merchant Mariner Credential, it’s more important than ever to get it right the first time. Don’t let mistakes on your CG-719B derail your career. Use MM-SEAS to ensure your application is submitted perfectly.
Looking for more tips on avoiding USCG license renewal headaches? Check out our comprehensive guide: Ultimate USCG License Renewal Checklist.
MM-SEAS is here to help you navigate the complexities of uscg license requirements, track your MMC status, and get your credentials approved without hassle. Let us make your next application painless and stress-free!
Need to renew, upgrade or get your first USCG license? We're here to help.
About the author
Nate Gilman is President and Co-Founder of MM-SEAS. He hawsepiped from the deck to a 3rd Mate Unlimited license with full STCW compliance over more than 15 years at sea, and is a veteran of the NOAA Commissioned Corps. He works directly with the National Maritime Center, USCG-approved training schools, and vessel operators on credentialing policy, and writes on sea service documentation, evaluation standards, and how mariners move up the license ladder.
