How to Get a Merchant Marine Z Card

Get a license to work aboard ships.

If you want to make a career of working aboard ships or ocean-going vessels, you must have a license. To begin a sea-going career, get a Z-card, also known as a merchant mariner's document or merchant mariner's credential. Your entry level title as a beginner will be either wiper, ordinary seaman or steward.

Instructions

Entry Level Licensing

1. 

   Apply for a TWIC.

   Go to the Transportation Safety Administration website and follow the directions to apply for a transportation worker identification card, or TWIC. You must go to an enrollment center, "provide biographic information, identity documents, biometric information (fingerprints), sit for a digital photograph, and pay the established TWIC fee" to receive the card, according to the TSA.

2. 

   Forms are necessary to apply.

   Go to the National Maritime Center website's "application and forms" section. Download and print CG Form 719K/E Entry-Level Physical Examination Report, CG Form 719P Chemical Testing Report, and CG Form 719B Application.

3. 

   An examination is required.

   Call a health care provider and schedule an appointment to complete CG Form 719K/E Entry-Level Physical Examination.

4. 

   Get a negative drug test.

   Call a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) approved facility and schedule a drug test or arrange for a medical facility to collect a urine sample and transport it to a SAMSHA lab. Ensure the paperwork documenting the drug test is completed.

5. 

   Take an oath.

   Fill out the CG Form 719B Application for Merchant Mariner Credential. Arrange for an authorized representative to deliver the Merchant Mariner Oath.

6. 

   Submit all forms.

   Submit completed forms to the applicable Coast Guard Regional Exam Center (REC) as listed on the National Maritime Center website's "REC information" tab.

Tips & Warnings

• When making your medical appointment, ensure that the facility can complete the necessary paperwork. Inform the provider of your requirements.

• Individuals with experience and prior sea service will have to submit additional documentation that is not required for entry-level beginners.

• Use delivery confirmation if mailing your application and make copies of each document.

• A notary public or Coast Guard official may administer the Merchant Mariner Oath. Do not sign the oath until you have a valid witness.

• Ensure that your drug test is administered within six months of applying for the z-card and your physical is conducted within one year of applying. Physicals and drug tests beyond this time period are not accepted.

• If you have any criminal convictions you must provide a written account of all offenses to the Coast Guard.

References

• U. S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center Merchant Mariner Credential Application Acceptance Checklist
• Sea School: Procedures for Obtaining a Merchant Mariner's Document
• National Maritime Center: Frequently Asked Questions Merchant Mariner Credentials
• TSA: Information For Individuals Applying For A Transportation Worker Identification Credential

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• TSA: FAQ TWIC
• Ordinary Seaman
• TSA: Transportation Worker Identification Credential
• United States Coast Guard: CG Form 719P Periodic Drug Testing Form