The United States Coast Guard issues guidance for crediting sea service

The United States Coast Guard has issued a policy letter about the sea service credit for able seaman courses of instruction.

This document was issued on 12 June 2023.

The purpose of this policy letter is to provide guidance on crediting sea service for approved courses of instruction under 46 U.S.C. 7315(b).

The Coast Guard will use this policy to evaluate course approval submissions and determine the amount of sea service credited for completing an able seaman course.

This policy clarifies how sea service is credited and includes guidelines for shore-based training, training vessels, and other vessels.

Course providers should follow the approval process to request sea service credit.

It's important to note that this guidance is not a substitute for legal requirements and does not impose legally binding obligations.

For any inquiries or requests for changes, contact the Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing (CG-MMC) at (202) 372-2357 or MMCPolicy@uscg.mil.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):

Sea Service Credit for Able Seaman Courses of Instruction