Last Updated on Thursday, 12 February 2009 14:35 Wednesday, 04 February 2009 12:29

Issue: Mariners who could document 90 days service in towing, and were licensed before May 2001 could have their license endorsed as master of towing vessels simply by providing sea service letters to the Coast Guard upon renewal of the license. Mariners without a towing endorsement would be required to complete a four-year process to work up through apprentice Mate, Mate and then Master of towing vessels.

Status: The Coast Guard has issued a rulemaking to provide an alternative progression for experienced licensed mariners without a towing endorsement to gain such an endorsement after documenting towing experience, completion of a TOAR and passing an examination OMSA has submitted supportive to give you flexibility to move mariners between tugs, AHTS and crew/supply vessels. The new rule is at: http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2008/pdf/E8-21118.pdf .