USCG LICENSES, ENDORSEMENTS, AND PERMITS OFFERED
Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels (OUPV)
The (OUPV) license allows individuals to operate certain types of small vessels for hire. The OUPV license is typically issued for vessels up to 100 gross tons. It allows the operator to carry up to six paying passengers (hence the term "Six-Pack") along with crew members. The license specifies the geographical area in which the operator is authorized to navigate. This can include inland waterways, near coastal waters, or specific bodies of water as determined by the license endorsements. With an OUPV license, individuals can operate uninspected passenger vessels for activities such as charters, sightseeing tours, dive charters, and other similar commercial passenger-carrying operations.
25, ,50 or 100-Ton Master Captain's License
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) Master Captain's license, officially known as the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Master endorsement, authorizes an individual to serve as the captain or master of a vessel engaged in commercial operations. The Master Captain license is issued with specific tonnage limitations, allowing the holder to operate vessels of a certain size and tonnage. The license may range from the Near Coastal route to Inland, Great Lakes, and more, depending on the individual's qualifications and examination results. The Master Captain license allows individuals to serve as the master or captain of inspected and uninspected vessels engaged in commercial operations. This can include charter boats, ferries, tour boats, and other types of commercial vessels.
Sailing Endorsement
A United States Coast Guard (USCG) sailing endorsement is an additional qualification that can be added to a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), allowing individuals to operate certain types of sailing vessels for commercial purposes. The sailing endorsement authorizes the holder to serve as the master or captain of sailing vessels engaged in commercial operations. This can include charter sailing, sail training, and other commercial sailing activities such as passenger charters, instructional sailing programs, or sail training voyages. The sailing endorsement allows mariners to combine their sailing expertise with commercial activities, providing opportunities to operate sailing vessels for various purposes.
Towing Endorsement
A towing endorsement is an additional qualification that can be added to a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), allowing individuals to operate towing vessels for commercial purposes. A USCG towing endorsement authorizes the holder to serve as the master or captain of towing vessels engaged in commercial towing operations. This can include pushing or towing barges, assisting vessels in distress, and other commercial towing activities. The endorsement covers the operation of towing vessels engaged in various commercial activities, such as towing vessels on inland waterways, along coastal routes, or in other navigable waters. Individuals can tow other vessels, including assisting vessels in transit, transporting barges, or providing towing services to maritime industries.
Marine Radio Operator Permit
A Marine Radio Operator Permit (MP) is a credential issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the United States. A Marine Radio Operator Permit authorizes the holder to operate, maintain, and repair certain maritime radio equipment on vessels and at coast stations. It is often required for those who operate GMDSS radio stations (internationally recognized system that enhances maritime communication and ensures safety at sea). The MP is typically required for individuals who operate Very High Frequency (VHF) equipment which are commonly used for communication in coastal areas. The permit may also be required for operating Medium Frequency (MF) and High Frequency (HF) equipment, which are used for longer-range communication at sea.