The following bulletin dated April 26 was released by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Temporary Extension of Administrative Grace Period for Merchant Mariner Credentialing Transactions
The Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing (CG-MMC) Assistant Commandant for Prevention Policy (CG-5P) has published CG-MMC Policy Letter 01-24, Temporary Extension of Administrative Grace Period for Credentialing Transactions.
This policy letter will allow mariners to renew a merchant mariner credential (MMC) up to 6 years after its expiration without taking the complete original examination. All other credentialing requirements for renewal after expiration remain unchanged, and so in some circumstances an open book examination may be required in accordance with 46 CFR 10.227(e)(1).
Mariners who had previously applied for renewal of their MMC after the 1-year grace period had expired may re-apply for renewal if they are within the new, extended grace period. A new application will be necessary, including payment of required fees, per 46 CFR 10.219.
If you have a current approval to test letter issued by the National Maritime Center (NMC) to re-instate an MMC expired beyond the 1-year administrative grace period but within 6 years, please contact the NMC at or (888) 427-5662.
This policy letter is effective immediately and will remain in effect indefinitely. The Coast Guard will provide additional guidance concerning expiration of this policy as necessary. The policy letter is available on the Merchant Mariner Credentialing Policy Letter webpage.
Mariners and other interested parties should contact the Mariner Credentialing Program Policy Division at or (202) 372-2357 with any questions or feedback.