USCG Captain’s License for Boat Tours (2026) | TMMR
USCG Captain’s License for Boat Tours (2026)
A commercial captain’s license is a USCG credential for qualified operators of commercial vessels.
Who Needs a USCG Captain’s License?
The supplied source states that operators of vessels carrying passengers for hire, cargo, goods, or materials need a captain’s license. The source describes sea-service, examination, medical, drug-screening, and application requirements.
- OUPV, Master Inland, and Master Near Coastal are described license types.
- Sea-service requirements vary by credential and operating range.
- Applications include supporting documents and fees.
Which License Types Are Described?
- OUPV, commonly called a six-pack license, for up to six passengers on an uninspected vessel of 100 tons or less.
- Master Inland for inspected and uninspected vessels within designated inland waters.
- Master Near Coastal for inspected and uninspected vessels on inland waters and up to 200 miles off the U.S. coast.
How to Get a Captain’s License
- Accumulate qualifying sea service.
- Complete a USCG-approved examination or training course.
- Submit medical, drug-screening, sea-service, identification, and other required documents.
- Pay the application fees and complete the required oath.
Renewal and Cost
The supplied source states that a captain’s license is valid for five years and may be renewed with qualifying sea service or a refresher course. It describes overall costs of $500 to $800 or more depending on the course and application requirements.
Captain’s License Questions from Boat Tour Operators
Who needs a commercial captain’s license?
The supplied source states that anyone who wants to get paid to direct a ship, including operators of vessels carrying passengers for hire, cargo, goods, or materials, needs a captain’s license.
How much sea time is described for an OUPV license?
The supplied source describes 360 days of sea time, including 90 days in the range for which the applicant applies and 90 days within the last three years.
How long is a captain’s license valid?
The supplied source states that the license is valid for five years and can be renewed.
What documents are part of the application?
The supplied source lists medical examination documentation, drug-screening enrollment proof, sea-service forms, identification, and application materials.
How much does a captain’s license cost?
The supplied source estimates overall costs of $500 to $800 or more, depending on the course and application requirements.
Source Used for This Draft
The supplied source is an industry training article. Confirm current requirements against USCG materials before publication.