The United States Coast Guard has removed the merchant mariner oath requirement, effective December 17, 2024. This update saves mariners time, money, and hassle, making it easier than ever to begin your maritime career, whether you're pursuing a 100-ton Captain's License, OUPV license, or an entry-level credential.
Who Does This Apply To?
If you're just starting your journey toward a maritime career, you may have heard about the required "mariner's oath" as part of the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) application process. But here’s the great news: that requirement is now obsolete! The Coast Guard has officially eliminated the need for a merchant mariner oath, sparing new mariners unnecessary steps.
The Coast Guard determined the oath was redundant. Mariners already attest to "solemnly swear or affirm" on the Application for Merchant Mariner Credential (Form CG-719B), which serves as a legally binding agreement. By removing the additional step, the Coast Guard is streamlining the process for everyone.
How Did It Used to Work?
Previously, aspiring mariners were required to take an oath in front of a notary public or a Coast Guard official. This added time, expense, and complexity to the application process. You might have been told to:
- Find a notary public or visit a Coast Guard office.
- Take time off work to attend an appointment.
- Pay fees ranging from $2 to $25.
The Coast Guard recognized this step as unnecessary, as the signed CG-719B application already legally binds mariners to their responsibilities. By eliminating this requirement, the Coast Guard has removed a significant barrier for new applicants.
What Does This Mean for Me?
This change means you can skip the step of taking an oath entirely! No more searching for a notary public or scheduling trips to a Coast Guard office. Whether you're aiming for a 100-ton Captain's License, an OUPV, or a new entry-level position, this update benefits all mariners applying for a credential.
Key Benefits:
- Saves time by removing a redundant step.
- Reduces costs associated with notary fees or travel.
- Makes the process more accessible for new mariners.
The Coast Guard's decision to eliminate this step is a direct response to streamlining the application process and making it more accessible for everyone. Our MM-SEAS team is grateful to the Coast Guard for making another positive step towards modernizing their processes and removing barriers for mariners to join the workforce.
This is a significant update, particularly for those who have recently started the process. If you've been told you need to take an oath, you can now confidently disregard that information. You can now channel that time and those funds towards your training, equipment, or other aspects of your maritime journey that are truly necessary.
How Does MM-SEAS Help Me Get My MMC?
We at MM-SEAS are here to support you every step of the way. Our mission is to simplify the credentialing process, making it faster and easier for mariners like you to get started. Whether you’re renewing your MMC, upgrading your credentials, or applying for your first Merchant Mariner Credential, we’re committed to ensuring you have the most accurate and up-to-date information to pursue your maritime dreams without unnecessary hurdles.
Here’s how MM-SEAS helps make the process seamless:
- Interactive Checklists: We simplify the MMC application process into clear, manageable steps, covering everything you need for getting your first Captains license, entry-level credentials, renewals, and upgrades.
- Document Management: Keep track of your sea time, training certificates, and required forms in one secure location, so you’re always organized and prepared.
- Stress-Free MMC: Our software ensures that your CG-719B and other forms are complete, accurate, and ready for submission, reducing the chance of errors and delays.
- Time and Cost Savings: For $399, MM-SEAS builds your application and makes sure it is submitted to the Coast Guard, saving you time and hassle.
Do you have questions about the MMC application process? Create a free account and reach out to our team via the Blue “i” buttons inside the MM-SEAS site.
As fellow captains and deckhands, we understand how complex and frustrating it can be to get your USCG License. That’s why we built MM-SEAS to make documenting sea time, understanding license requirements, and keeping track of expirations simple and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I still need the oath if I already started my application?
A: No! The new policy applies retroactively. If you’ve been told you need to take an oath, you can confidently skip that step.
Q: Will this change impact other parts of the application process?
A: No other changes have been announced at this time, but MM-SEAS will keep you updated with the latest information.
At MM-SEAS, we understand the complexities of the maritime industry because we’ve been there. Whether you’re renewing your MMC, upgrading your credentials, or applying for your first Merchant Mariner Credential, our team is committed to making the licensing process as smooth and efficient as possible. If you have questions about MMC renewal, upgrades, or first-time applications, our experts are just a click away.
Start your maritime journey today with MM-SEAS and experience a better way to navigate USCG credentialing!
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.
