Posted: October 21, 2013

U.S. Coast Guard's National Maritime Center, regional exam centers reopen

The following bulletin was released by the National Maritime Center, which reopened Oct. 17. The complete bulletin is available on the NMC website.

In order to best service the maritime industry we will be evaluating the impacts caused by the lapse in appropriations. Impacts regarding 'Awaiting Information' and 'Approved to Test' dates, 'Course Approval' and 'Designated Examiner' expiration dates and other items are being considered. We will push additional information in the coming days. Several items of note:

• Regional Exam Centers will reopen on Monday October 21. This will allow us the opportunity to assess the volume of applications that have been submitted during the closure and ensure we are prepared to fully service your needs when we open. Mariners are highly encouraged to continue submitting applications via mail or email and to continue monitoring the website for updated information.
• The scheduling system for Regional Exam Center (REC) appointments will be reopened today (Oct. 17). You may schedule appointments for examination, application drop off or other credentialing business for Monday, October 21 and beyond.
• The previously announced domestic extension and the issuance of expiring STCW endorsements will continue as previously announced (Extension of Expiring Merchant Mariner Credential(s) & Marine Safety Information Bulletin).
• The previously posted contact information for mariners holding active STCW endorsements remains valid (Mariner Contact Information Validation Request).

The NMC recognizes that the limited NMC operations and Regional Exam Center closures have impacted the maritime industry. We will do whatever we can to minimize that impact and to recover as quickly as possible. All are encouraged to closely monitor the NMC website for updates.