This policy letter provides temporary guidance for renewal of a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) endorsements for Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC), Proficiency in Survival Craft-Limited (PSC-Ltd), Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boats (FRB), Basic Training (BT), and Advanced Firefighting (AFF) for MMCs with expiration dates from March 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021. Until July 1, 2021, the Coast Guard will use this policy to evaluate mariner applications requesting renewal of MMCs with expiration dates between March 1, 2020, and June 30, 2021.
MSIB 08-20 Change 3, issued August 20, 2020, was intended to allow mariners to continue to work in their current capacities until they are able to meet all of the requirements for renewal of their credential and provides additional details on the extensions.
The National Maritime Center (NMC) also issued Merchant Mariner Credential Examinations Update - August 24, 2020 describing its intention to reopen all examination rooms. Each opening will be announced with guidance on how to schedule an examination. Mariners should visit the NMC website for further instructions on examinations and reopenings. |