USCG Issues Policy on Processing of Merchant Mariner Credentials for Mariners Not Requiring a Transportation Worker Identification Credential

December 23, 2011

Policy on Processing of Merchant Mariner Credentials for Mariners Not Requiring a Transportation Worker Identification Credential

The Coast Guard has released Policy Letter 11-15 which describes the process it intends to follow in implementing Section 809 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-281), which modified the requirement that all mariners obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) in order to be issued a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Although full implementation of Section 809 may require regulatory changes, this policy letter implements two policy mechanisms that will allow the Coast Guard to begin to implement the intent of the Act while working on the final regulatory solution:

 Enforcement.

 Credentialing Processes.

The Coast Guard has interpreted the act to exempt Merchant Mariners who are not serving on vessels required to have a Vessel Security Plan (VSP) from the requirement to hold a valid TWIC. However, in order for the Coast Guard to process a credential application, we must have received the applicant’s biographical information from the Transportation Security Administration; must have completed the TWIC enrollment process at least one time. Additionally, in order for the Coast Guard to process a credential application for a mariner who is not in possession of a valid TWIC, the mariner must submit a statement indicating an understanding of the possible delays associated with processing the safety and suitability check and certifying that they do not require a TWIC in accordance with the Policy Letter. For specific information please see:

 Policy Letter 11-15 can be found at:

http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/marpers/pag/twic_809_policy_letter.pdf

 Federal Register Link can be viewed by going to http://www.regulations.gov, inserting USCG-2011-0465 in the “Keyword” box, and then clicking “Search.”.

 A Sample Statement of Certification and Understanding can be found at:

http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/twic/sample_b.pdf.

Should you require additional information or assistance, please contact the NMC by email at IASKNMC@uscg.mil or by phone at 1-888-IASKNMC.

Sincerely,

/A. S. Lloyd/

Anthony S. Lloyd

Captain, U. S. Coast Guard

Commanding Officer