Become a Merchant Mariner

How to Become a Merchant Mariner: Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming a merchant mariner can be an exciting step in a new direction, but it takes a few steps to get there – and they have to be done in a certain order.
You can work toward becoming a merchant mariner either:

On your own
By graduating an academy
Through a merchant mariner training program

This page will help explain how to get the proper credentials and training on your own.

How to Become a Merchant Mariner
Step-by-Step Guide

From first document to first voyage – with these simple steps

01 Get your passport

If you don’t already have a U.S. passport, getting one should be your first step. You won’t need a passport in every case to work at sea, but many jobs do require one, and having a passport makes it easier to get other credentials you’ll need. Overall, it’s just easier to have one.

Obtaining a passport can take four weeks or longer, and having one will make the rest of the process easier, so it’s a good idea to start with this step. If you already have a passport, make sure it’s current. If not, renew your passport.

02 Apply for a TWIC

A Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is another essential document you’ll need to work at sea. The application process is relatively easy—you’ll need to pass a background check and pay a fee—but it can take up to 70 days to get your credential.1

Having a passport makes it easier to get your TWIC. And you’ll need a TWIC, or proof of applying for a TWIC, before you can move forward with the rest of the process.

03 Get your Merchant Mariner Credential

A Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) is one of a sailor’s most important documents, but the process of getting one is the most involved.

To apply for an MMC, you’ll need to either have a photocopy of your TWIC or proof of applying for one. You’ll also need to fill out a lot of paperwork, pay a fee, say an oath in front of a certified notary, and have a physical and drug test performed. Read More…

04 Take a basic safety training class

Working on a ship requires specific training. When you pass a training course, you’ll get something called an endorsement, to prove you passed and are qualified for that skill or job.

All sailors must have a basic safety training endorsement to work on a ship. This endorsement qualifies you for an entry-level position in either the deck, steward, or engineering department and is the minimum you’ll need to get started. Read More…

05 Look for a job

Once your MMC is processed and you have proof of basic safety training, you can start looking for a job. There are a number of online job boards that list openings, or you can work with maritime hiring agencies or directly with shipping companies to get started.

Resources

TWIC® FAQs. (n.d.) Transportation Security Administration. Accessed December 2024.
Merchant Mariner Credential. (n.d.) United States Coast Guard. Accessed November 2024.

Ready to Start?

Keep your progress in one place—Passport, TWIC, MMC steps, training shortlist, and applications.
Simple, clear, and ready when you are.