Coast Guard Extends Credential Deadlines In Federal Shutdown
The United States Coast Guard is extending deadlines for licenses and other credentials due to the federal government shutdown.
The National Maritime Center and all regional examination centers remain closed, the Coast Guard said in an October circular. Customer walk-in service at regional examination centers is suspended, with all examinations and other appointments canceled.
E-mail submission of applications and supporting documentation remains active. Processing will resume once appropriations are restored.
Approval to test letters, drug tests letters and additional information letters sent to mariners, training providers, designated examiners and qualified assessors that expired on or after October 1, 2025, will be extended from the date funding is restored for a period equal to the duration of the shutdown.
Mariners who began but did not complete all modules of an examination before October 1 may resume testing without penalty once the NMC reopens. Testing should be complete within 60 days of reopening. Ninety-day retest periods have also been paused. Contact the NMC regarding waivers due to sea service.
For updates on NMC and REC operating status, monitor the NMC website. For questions, contact the NMC’s Customer Service Center via the NMC online chat system, by e-mailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662).
