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.

Mariner Record Requests

Merchant Mariners, or their next-of-kin, may obtain copies of their records, but the National Maritime Center (NMC) may not disclose an individual’s personal record without:

  • Written and/or notarized consent of the mariner,
  • Power of Attorney, or
  • by providing a certified copy of a Death Certificate. 

Request Information

You must include the required information in writing in order for us to process your request:

  • Nature of the request,
  • Requester and mariner’s full name,
  • Mariner's reference or social security number,
  • Mariner’s date of birth,
  • Contact information, address, and phone number.
 

Record Requests

The National Maritime Center (NMC) maintains records for United States Merchant Mariners, which are protected under the Privacy Act of 1974. Mariner records can be used for many reasons, including a valuable tool in genealogical research. 

E-mail:
It is highly recommended that the Record Request Form be submitted electronically.

Mail:
National Maritime Center
Attn.: Correspondence (NMC-41)
100 Forbes Drive
Martinsburg, WV 25404

Fax:
304-433-3417
Attn.: Correspondence (NMC-41)