How to Get a Captain's License: Complete Guide for Boaters

Becoming a licensed boat captain can open up many opportunities, whether you're looking to operate a fishing charter, like those on our Canyon Eagle vessels, or simply want to navigate the seas as a certified professional. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get your captain’s license for boating.

Determine the Type of Captain’s License You Need

Captain's licenses are categorized by the size of vessels and the number of passengers you plan to carry. The most common types are:

• OUPV/Six-Pack License:

  • Allows you to operate vessels with up to six paying passengers, typically for charters or fishing trips.

• Master License:

  • Required if you plan to operate vessels carrying more than six passengers or boats over 100 gross tons.

Determine your goals to see which license is right for you. For example, if you plan to run small charters, the OUPV license might be all you need. But if you're interested in expanding your business, the Master License may be a better fit.

Meet the Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) captain’s license, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old for the OUPV license and 21 for the Master license.

• Have U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.

• Have a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).

• Meet medical and physical health standards (passing a USCG-approved physical and vision test).

• Have a minimum of boating experience, measured in days spent at sea (360 days for an OUPV license, 720 days for a Master license, with a portion of that time in the last 3 years).

Accumulate Your Sea Time

The USCG requires you to log sea time to prove your boating experience. A “day” of sea time is typically defined as four hours of vessel operation within a 24-hour period. Keep a detailed log of the time spent operating boats, as this will be crucial when you apply.

Sea Time Requirements:

• OUPV License:

  • 360 days of documented sea service, with at least 90 days in the last 3 years.

• Master License:

  • 720 days of sea service, with 360 days on a vessel over 34 feet in length, and 90 days within the last 3 years.

Complete a USCG-Approved Captain’s Course

Before you can take the captain’s exam, you’ll need to complete an approved course. These courses typically cover topics like:

• Rules of the road

• Navigation and plotting

• Safety procedures

• Weather forecasting

• Maritime law

The course concludes with a written exam that will test your knowledge in these areas. Many training schools offer both online and in-person classes. Expect to spend 80 to 100 hours completing the course, depending on the level of certification.

Pass the USCG Exam

Once you’ve completed your captain’s course, the next step is passing the USCG-approved exam. The exam includes multiple sections, including:

• Navigation and Plotting:

  • Covers chart reading, plotting courses, and calculating distances.

• Rules of the Road:

  • Ensures you understand the legal requirements of operating a vessel safely.

• Safety Procedures:

  • Covers firefighting, man-overboard drills, and other emergency protocols.

• Deck General:

  • Tests your knowledge of the mechanics of boat operation.

Submit Your Application

After passing your exam, you'll need to submit your complete application package to the National Maritime Center (NMC). This package includes:

• Your completed USCG exam results.

• Documentation of your sea time (Form CG-719S).

• A valid TWIC card (can be applied for via the TSA website).

• A physical exam form (CG-719K) and vision test.

• Proof of completing a CPR and First Aid course.

• Payment of the application fee.

Background Check

As part of your application, the USCG will conduct a thorough background check. Any previous convictions related to drugs, alcohol, or boating violations may impact your eligibility. If you have any concerns, consult the NMC before applying.

Receive Your License

Once your application is reviewed and approved, you’ll receive your captain's license in the mail! Depending on your level of certification, you’ll now be able to operate vessels commercially and potentially open the doors to new boating ventures like fishing charters or tours.

Stay Up-to-Date

Once you’ve obtained your license, it’s important to remember that it’s not permanent. USCG captain’s licenses are typically valid for five years, after which you’ll need to renew them by providing proof of continuing sea service or retaking certain parts of the exam.

Final Thoughts

Getting a captain’s license can be an involved process, but the rewards—both personal and professional—are well worth it. Whether you plan to charter fishing trips on one of our Canyon Eagle boats or start your own boating venture, following these steps will help you navigate the licensing process smoothly.

For more tips, or if you’re interested in booking a fishing charter to gain more sea time, visit us at Canyon Eagle Fishing Charters!