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• Step 1. Determine the Officer and/or Ratings that you wish to obtain by visiting the NMC’s Checklist Page. Specific requirements can be found on the checklists. Then come back to this page.

• Step 2. Obtain a Transportation Worker’s Identification Credential. Be sure to list your occupation as a Merchant Mariner. Make photocopy of TWIC or copy of the TWIC application receipt.

• Step 3. Fill out a CG-719B Application for Merchant Mariner Credential.

• Step 4. (IF APPLICABLE) Fill out a CG-719C Conviction Statement.

• Step 5. Fill out a CG-719K Application for Medical Certificate or CG-719K/E Application for Medical Certificate for Entry Level Ratings.

• Step 6. (OPTIONAL) 3rd Party Release: Can be listed on Page 5 of the CG-719B, Page 10 of the CG-719K, Page 5 of the CG-719K/E and/or on an alternate form.

• Step 7. Obtain Drug Testing using a CG-719P Periodic Drug Testing Form or options listed on Page 2.

• Step 8. Pay user fees at https://www.pay.gov (preferred payment method). Print a copy of your payment receipt to send with your application package.

• Step 9. (IF APPLICABLE) Fill out CG-719S Sea Service or obtain other documented sea service.

• Step 10. (IF APPLICABLE) Obtain relevant Training Course Certificate(s) and/or Assessment(s). Make photo copies of all course completion certificates and/or completed assessments.

• Step 11. Submit all of your forms, photo copies, and supporting documentation to a Regional Exam Center. You must apply at an REC (emailing your application is the preferred method). Missing information will cause applications to be delayed or rejected.

• Step 12. (OPTIONAL) If you wish to receive your credential via a method that can be tracked and will reach you in a few days, consider using an expedited mailing option.