I want to be a sailor, where do I start?

So you want to work in the maritime industry. We cant argue with you, its an awesome way of life, the pay can be great, and the opportunities are many. Working in the industry requires some preparation, we will try to give you a little advice here.

If you read our post The Path to Choosing Your Maritime Job, with the data provided by the Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County, I bet you were probably surprised by the industries that work in our region.

Shipping & Transportation
Commercial Fishing
Cruises & Ferries
Offshore Operations
Government Operations
Science & Research

And thats just a small sampling of our regional opportunities.

Before you call or email us with your questions about getting started in the Maritime Industry, please have a look at the FAQ’s below, it may save you a phone call, and you can get started right away. When you are ready to take a class with us for your Able Seaman, or Lifeboat, or any other course we offer bookmark this page.

Frequently Asked Questions

1st things 1st

Before you get started you should know that this is an investment in your future, and the initial cost for Your TWIC card, MMD, and Basic Training are going to require and investment of money and time.

Here is what you need to do first:

Apply for your TWIC Card

A Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is a credential for all personnel requiring un-escorted access to secure areas of regulated facilities and vessels, and all mariners holding United States Coast Guard-issued credentials. Individuals who meet TWIC eligibility requirements will be issued a tamper-resistant credential containing the worker’s biometric data (fingerprint template) to allow for a positive link between the card and the individual.

Steps on obtaining a TWIC:
Step 1: Gather Documents
Step 2: Enroll
Step 3: Pick up TWIC

Complete the online application or you can complete the entire process in person at an application center. Schedule an appointment online or call (855) 347-8371 weekdays, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments take priority.

Visit a TWIC application center to:

Provide required documentation, be fingerprinted and take a facial photo. Bring your current U.S. passport or a driver’s license and birth certificate. See other acceptable documents.
Pay a non-refundable fee valid for five years with a credit card, money order, company check or certified/cashier’s check.
- New applicant: $125.25
- New applicant reduced rate: $105.25*
- Replacement card: $60

You can have your card mailed to your home address or you can pick it up at the application center. You can check your status online at any time.

To be eligible for the reduced rate you must present a valid driver license with a hazardous materials endorsement, or a Free and Secure Trade card. Please note, if you select the reduced rate, your new TWIC card will be valid for five years from the chosen document’s issuance date.

Eligibility

You may apply if you are a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, naturalized citizen or a nonimmigrant alien, asylee, or refugee who is in lawful status.

Applicants may be ineligible due to:

Incomplete or false application information.
Disqualifying criminal offenses and factors.

2nd: Get Your MMC

Use the following steps and guide to apply for an original Merchant Mariner Credential:

Step 1– If required; obtain your Transportation Workers Identification Credential.
Step 2– Ensure you meet qualifications for the credential requested.
Step 3- Fill out the appropriate forms.
Step 4– Pay applicable fees.
Step 5– Send your application and supporting documentation to a local Regional Exam Center.

Once You Have Your TWIC & MMC

One you have your TWIC (Transportation Workers Identification Credential) and your MMC (Merchant Mariners Credential) you are ready to start looking for work as an OS (Ordinary Seaman)

However, keep in mind that if you plan on working outside the boundary line, ferry system, or a cruise line you may need STCW 95 Training.

What is STCW?
Standards of Training and Certification of Watchkeeping

Basic Training, or BT is the starting point for persons seeking employement in the maritime industry. By having your STCW Basic Training it may give you an edge over other candidates.

In Washington State we recommend Fremont Maritime’s Basic Training series. Approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and the Netherlands Shipping Inspectorate as meeting the requirements of Table A-VI/1 of the STCW Code. These courses are also recognized by the United Kingdom’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) as well as many other nations.

In 2017 The Northwest Maritime Academy Plans on offering STCW Basic Training, so keep an eye out for our announcement, sign up for the newsletter.

Who needs STCW training?

Personnel working on the following vessels if they operate seaward of the boundary line (The boundary line separates inland and near coastal waters, for licensing purposes.)
All personnel operating on foreign / international voyages, regardless of the size of the vessel
Commercial Vessels over 200 gross tons.
Passenger vessels subject to 46 CFR sub-chapter H (over 100GT)
Uninspected towing vessels that are subject to the Officers Competency Convention.

Ready To Find a Job?

Frequently Asked Questions

Here is what you need to do first:

Are you ready to look for a position?

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