Everything you need to bring to your Regional Exam Center appointment.
Your Readiness
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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 uses a NOAA training chart provided by the REC — currently 12221TR, 12354TR or 13205TR. Confirm which one with your 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
USCG REC Office Finder
Find your nearest Regional Exam Center
USCG National Maritime Center
NMC online portal for credential applications
The Chartroom has a growing bank of USCG exam questions with captain's explanations.