What Is a Merchant Mariner Certification?

A Merchant Mariner Certification is a prerequisite to working U.S. merchant ships.

A merchant marine is a sailor who serves on a U.S. merchant ship. According to the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, Merchant Marines are civilians, except in times of war.

Certification

A Merchant Mariner's Certification (MMC), formerly known as the Z Card, is required for a person to work on a ship in the merchant marine industry.

Eligibility

A person must be at least 16 years of age to receive a MMC. If the recipient is under 18, a notarized and signed statement of consent is required from a parent or legal guardian. Applicants must also pass a National Driver Registry (NDR).

Training

Formal training, including a minimum amount of sea time and specific testing and training, are required to become a Merchant Marine.

Work Qualifications

Depending on the rating for which a person applies, an MMC allows a person to work in the Deck, Engineering or Steward's department of a ship.

Work Limits

To sail on deep-sea oceans, the Coast Guard requires a Basic Safety Training Course (BST) in addition to an MMC.

References

• Maritime Consulting Inc.: Merchant Marines FAQs
• American Merchant Marine at War: Merchant Marine Act, 1936

Resources

• USCG National Maritime Center: Providing Credentials to Mariners
• Global Security.org: U.S. Merchant Marine / U.S. Merchant Fleet