Do I Have to Meet the Requirements for STCW to Receive a Domestic Officer Endorsement?

No, you do need to meet STCW requirements for a domestic officer endorsement.

What Is the Difference Between Domestic and STCW Endorsements?

Domestic (National) Endorsements authorize you to sail in U.S. waters only.
STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) endorsements are international qualifications attached to your domestic endorsements, allowing you to work on vessels in international waters.

• You can hold a domestic endorsement without STCW, but:
• You must hold both domestic and STCW endorsements to work internationally.
  

What Are the Domestic Endorsements Equivalent to STCW?

Below are some common equivalents

⚠️ Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Equivalents you may qualify for can vary based on your vessel type, route, and tonnage.

‍

Domestic (National)                                                                         STCW Equivalent

_____________________________________________________________________

‍QMED                                                                                       Able Seafarer-Engine

Master 100 GRT Inland                                                  No STCW equivalent – Inland only

‍Unlimited Chief Mate (Oceans)                              Chief Mate 3000 GT or More – Management Level

Able Seafarer                                                                      STCW Able Seafarer-Deck

Chief Engineer Limited                                                 Chief Engineer 1,000 & 4,000 HP Management Levels

OUPV (6-Pack License)                                                No STCW equivalent – Near coastal only

‍

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