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  • Writer's pictureNate Gilman

How long does it normally take to get my USCG License after submitting all of the paperwork?

Updated: Jan 7

Once you submit your application, it takes about 5-7 weeks for our customers to receive your new MMC. This is after submitting a perfect application that is flawless and putting everything in the order the USCG REC and National Maritime Center evaluators prefer.


Your MMC is good for 5 years, so if you're applying for renewal, you should start the process at least 3 months before the expiration date. You can apply for renewal 8 months before the expiration date, and applying early won't change your original expiration or renewal dates.




What if there's an issue with my application?


We're seeing each issue the USCG finds adds about 3 more weeks to the process for the NMC.


Some common mistakes we see with applications include:

  • Incomplete application (Missing signatures, incorrect dates, missing checkboxes)

  • Missing required documents (Proof of Citizenship, First Aid/CPR, TWIC, etc.)

  • Missing/outdated drug test results

  • Unpaid application fees

You can check the status of your MMC application here.


Once you enter your application reference number and your last name, you’ll see the information previously submitted with your application package, and the current status of your application process. The site will list any changes to your credentials that have been issued within the past 120 days.


What if I want to change my application in the middle of the process?


You can totally do that but know that if you want to modify (such as take another course) or add anything to the USCG Merchant Mariner Credential application after it has been submitted adds at least 3 - 4 weeks.


How do I get my application through the fastest?


The best way to get your new USCG License in you hand the fastest is to have a perfect application that is flawless and putting everything in the order the REC and NMC prefers.


This is exactly what MM-SEAS does! MM-SEAS software looks for all of the common errors such as missing both signatures and providing proper proof of ownership on the CG-719S and making sure you provide verification of identity for you original application.

We then pay your federal fees for you (second most common mistake we see), a USCG licensing specialist double checks everything on your application and then we create a perfect USCG MMC application in the order the REC and NMC prefers to make their lives easier as well.


After submission, we are also constantly keeping tabs on your application as it goes through the process and reach out to the USCG on your behalf to find out why the application is being slower than our other ones in the system.

The end result is the most stress free USCG licensing experience you will ever have.


Should I use MM-SEAS?


That is totally up to you! If you think everything is GTG and you don't need us then we encourage you to submit it to the REC on your own and not use us.


If you want to make sure your application is perfect and want us to have your back through the process then we are a perfect fit!



We hope this made your life a little easier and if you have other questions the MM-SEAS team is always here to help!


We do prefer to answer questions live with screen sharing to make both of our lives easier.


We hold free live virtual master classes Monday and Wednesday from 5:00 - 5:30 pm PT inside of mmseas.com under License Guidance and then Daily Master Classes.


Pro MM-SEAS members get access to our daily live master classes and office hours Monday thru Friday from 5:00 - 5:30 pm PT. You also get access to unlimited live 1 on 1 calls with one of our USCG Licensing Specialists. Pro MM-SEAS members can access these features inside of mmseas.com under License Guidance.


Need to renew, upgrade or get your first USCG license?
We're here to help.

Always Free | $299 if you file with us

(Includes pay.gov fees)

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