USCG Exam Day Checklist

Government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)

Must be current and not expired

Social Security Number (SSN card or proof)

Required for USCG application

Sea Service Letters

From employers or vessel operators documenting your time underway

Medical Certificate (46 CFR 10.303)

USCG-accepted medical practitioner — required before exam

CPR/First Aid Certificate

Must be current (within 2 years); AHA or equivalent

Drug Test Results

DOT-compliant urinalysis from a certified MRO — must be within 185 days

Two passport-sized photos

2×2 inches, taken within 6 months

Completed CG-719B application form

Maritime credential application, signed and notarized if required

Arrive early — check in at the Regional Exam Center (REC) front desk

Submit all documents for review by an examiner before testing

You will take a written exam — typically 1–3 modules depending on your license level

Chart plotting exam will require NOAA Training Chart 1210Tr (provided by REC)

Plotting tools (parallel rules, dividers) may be provided or you can bring your own

Passing score is 70% on each module

Modules are graded separately — you must pass each one

Failed modules can be retaken — check current USCG policy for waiting period

Plan for a full day — document review + testing can take 4–6 hours

Arrive 30 minutes early

Traffic, parking, and document check take time

Bring a non-programmable calculator

Scientific calculator OK; no phones or smart devices

Bring #2 pencils and erasers

Many RECs still use paper exams

Bring parallel rules and dividers

REC may supply these but having your own is safer

Get a full night of sleep before the exam

Fatigue significantly impacts performance

Eat a good breakfast — the exam is long

Some RECs allow snacks; check local policy

Review Rules of the Road and chart plotting the night before

These are the most commonly failed sections

Read each question completely before answering

USCG questions often have tricky wording