Due to an increase in application volume and technical difficulties with our credential production equipment, mariner applicants will experience issuance delays. For the most up to date status information, use our online tool to check your status. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience as we work to get your credential to you as soon as possible.

Medical Division

The Medical Division is responsible for determining the medical fitness for mariners to serve in the capacities specified by the domestic and international endorsements for which they apply.

To qualify for a medical certificate, a mariner must provide evidence of meeting the medical and physical standards on a CG-719-K or CG-719-K/E, as appropriate..

Medical Certificate

The medical certificate is a document that serves as proof that a mariner meets the required medical and physical standards. In order to receive a Merchant Mariner Credential or Medical Certificate you will need to complete the correct applications.

For additional details on medical certificates, including Duplicate Medical Certificate Requests:

As of January 24, 2014, the Coast Guard began issuing medical certificates to all mariners holding valid international endorsements, per the Final Rule titled, Implementation of the Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978 (STCW), as Amended, and Changes to National Endorsements.

 

CG 719K

The Application for Mariner Medical Certificate (CG-719K) is required for Officers and Mariners with a qualified rating. The examination and form must be completed within 12 months of application date. The medical provider completing the required examination must be a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner who is licensed in the US or US Territory. Use the following steps to apply.

DISCLAIMER:

USCG practices, with respect to the physical and medical evaluation process, continually evolve to align with current medical standards of care and current safety standards. Although Chapters 8 through 25 of the Merchant Mariner Medical Manual, Commandant Instruction Manual (COMDTINST M16721.48) provide guidance on medical conditions that may be subject to further review, the list of conditions is not all-inclusive; other conditions may be subject to further review if they are likely to pose risk of sudden incapacitation or a debilitating complication. For the most current medical information available, please contact the National Maritime Center Medical Helpdesk, 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662).