What is the OUPV captain's license?

The OUPV (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels) license, also called the Six-Pack license, is a U.S. Coast Guard credential that allows you to carry up to six paying passengers on uninspected vessels. It is the entry-level commercial captain's license issued by the USCG and is commonly used by fishing charter operators, water taxi drivers, and sailing instructors.

How many questions are on the OUPV exam?

The OUPV exam consists of approximately 140 multiple-choice questions divided across several modules including Rules of the Road, Deck General, Navigation General, and Plotting. Each module must be passed individually with a score of 70% or higher. The plotting section typically contains 10 to 15 questions that require chart work and calculations.

What topics are covered on the OUPV exam?

The OUPV exam covers Rules of the Road (inland and international navigation rules), Deck General (safety equipment, firefighting, first aid, weather), Navigation General (aids to navigation, compass corrections, tides and currents), and Chart Plotting (dead reckoning, course and speed calculations). Rules of the Road and plotting are generally considered the most challenging sections for candidates.

What is the passing score for the OUPV exam?

You must score at least 70% on each individual module of the OUPV exam to pass. There is no combined or overall score — every section must meet the 70% threshold independently. If you fail one module, you can retake just that section without repeating the entire exam, though you must pass all modules within one year of your first attempt.

What are the eligibility requirements for the OUPV license?

To qualify for a OUPV license, you must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and have a minimum of 360 days of documented sea service with at least 90 days in the previous three years. You also need to pass a physical exam, a drug screening, and hold a valid first aid and CPR certification from an approved provider.

How do I apply for the OUPV exam through the Coast Guard?

You apply by submitting USCG Form CG-719B along with proof of sea service, a physical examination on Form CG-719K, drug test results, first aid and CPR certificates, and a passport-style photo to your Regional Exam Center (REC). After your application is approved, you receive authorization to sit for the exam. Processing times vary but typically take four to eight weeks.

What materials are allowed during the OUPV exam?

During the OUPV exam, you are provided with navigation charts, plotting tools including parallel rulers and dividers, and approved reference materials at the testing center. You may use a basic calculator for the plotting section. Personal notes, study guides, and electronic devices such as phones or tablets are not permitted in the examination room.

What is the best way to prepare for the OUPV exam?

The most effective preparation combines a USCG-approved captain's course with consistent practice testing. Focus significant study time on Rules of the Road and chart plotting, as these sections have the highest failure rates. Practice with actual NOAA charts and plotting tools rather than relying solely on digital methods. Taking timed practice exams helps build familiarity with the question format and pacing.

OUPV Practice Test - Prepare for Your Captain's License

Name: OUPV Practice Test - Prepare for Your Captain's License
Uploaded: 2024-03-10T17:56:46.000Z
Description: Pass your OUPV exam on the first attempt. Practice questions with detailed answer explanations, hints, and instant scoring.

Pass your OUPV exam on the first attempt. Practice questions with detailed answer explanations, hints, and instant scoring.

OUPV - Operator Uninspected Passenger Vessel By Captain David HarringtonMay 7, 202655 min read

OUPV Practice Test - Prepare for Your Captain's License

⏱️4 HoursTime Limit

📝100+Questions

✅90%Pass Rate

💵$145Exam Fee

The OUPV Six Pack Captain's License is the most popular USCG credential for fishing guides, sailing charters, and tour boat operators. Earning your OUPV 6 Pack License requires passing four distinct exam modules with high accuracy, especially the Rules of the Road section which mandates a 90% passing score.

Uscg Chart Plotting Exam - Operator Uninspected Passenger Vessel study guide

OUPV Practice Test Questions

Prepare for the OUPV - Operator Uninspected Passenger Vessel exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.

OUPV Boating Safety

OUPV Exam Questions covering Boating Safety. Master OUPV Test concepts for certification prep.

OUPV Chart Plotting and Piloting

Free OUPV Practice Test featuring Chart Plotting and Piloting. Improve your OUPV Exam score with mock test prep.

OUPV Deck General and Safety

OUPV Mock Exam on Deck General and Safety. OUPV Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

OUPV Emergency Procedures and Drills

OUPV Test Prep for Emergency Procedures and Drills. Practice OUPV Quiz questions and boost your score.

OUPV Marine Navigation

OUPV Questions and Answers on Marine Navigation. Free OUPV practice for exam readiness.

OUPV Marine Weather and Tides

OUPV Mock Test covering Marine Weather and Tides. Online OUPV Test practice with instant feedback.

OUPV Navigational Rules of the Road

Free OUPV Quiz on Navigational Rules of the Road. OUPV Exam prep questions with detailed explanations.

OUPV Rules and Regulations

OUPV Practice Questions for Rules and Regulations. Build confidence for your OUPV certification exam.

OUPV Vessel Seamanship and Maneuvering

OUPV Test Online for Vessel Seamanship and Maneuvering. Free practice with instant results and feedback.

OUPV Weather Interpretation and Forecasting

OUPV Study Material on Weather Interpretation and Forecasting. Prepare effectively with real exam-style questions.

OUPV - Operator Uninspected Passenger Vess...

Free OUPV Test covering - Operator Uninspected Passenger Vessel Deck General and Safety. Practice and track your OUPV exam readiness.

OUPV - Operator Uninspected Passenger Vess...

OUPV Exam Questions covering - Operator Uninspected Passenger Vessel Rules of the Road. Master OUPV Test concepts for certification prep.

OUPV Licensing and Certification

Free OUPV Practice Test featuring OUPV Licensing and Certification. Improve your OUPV Exam score with mock test prep.

OUPV Passenger Safety and Vessel Operations

OUPV Mock Exam on OUPV Passenger Safety and Vessel Operations. OUPV Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.

FREE OUPV PRACTICE TEST

OUPV Exam Flashcards

Quick review for the OUPV Six Pack license

🔞What is the minimum age for an OUPV license?

You must be at least 18 years old to be issued an OUPV Captain's License.

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⚓What is the sea service requirement?

360 total days of sea service, with at least 90 days occurring in the last 3 years.

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📜What is the passing score for Rules of the Road?

You must score 90% or higher on the Rules of the Road module to pass.

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📆How long is the OUPV license valid?

The OUPV Six Pack license is valid for 5 years before renewal is required.

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🛥️Can I operate inspected vessels with an OUPV?

No, OUPV is strictly for Uninspected Passenger Vessels (less than 100 GT).

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🧭What does OUPV stand for?

Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels.

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OUPV EXAM QUESTIONS QUIZ

OUPV Exam Study Guide

Our OUPV study guide breaks down the essential information for the USCG OUPV certification process. From eligibility to scoring, this guide covers everything you need to know about the OUPV Six Pack License.

What is the OUPV Six Pack License?	The OUPV Six Pack License (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels) allows you to captain a vessel carrying up to six paying passengers. It is the most common entry-level USCG captain's license.
What vessels can I operate with an OUPV license?	With an OUPV license, you can operate uninspected vessels up to 100 gross tons. This typically includes fishing boats, sailboats, and small tour boats.
What are the age requirements for OUPV?	You must be at least 18 years old to be issued an OUPV Captain's License.
Do I need a TWIC card for OUPV?	Yes, a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is required before you can receive your USCG OUPV credential.

What is the OUPV Six Pack License?

The OUPV Six Pack License (Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessels) allows you to captain a vessel carrying up to six paying passengers. It is the most common entry-level USCG captain's license.

What vessels can I operate with an OUPV license?

With an OUPV license, you can operate uninspected vessels up to 100 gross tons. This typically includes fishing boats, sailboats, and small tour boats.

What are the age requirements for OUPV?

You must be at least 18 years old to be issued an OUPV Captain's License.

Do I need a TWIC card for OUPV?

Yes, a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is required before you can receive your USCG OUPV credential.

START OUPV REVIEWER QUIZ

OUPV Score Calculator

Total Scored Questions

150

How many questions did you answer correctly?

0105150

105 out of 150 correct

70%

Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)

Your Score: 105 correct✓PASS

The total estimated OUPV license cost is between $900 and $1,700. Choosing an online OUPV course can often save money on travel and accommodation compared to in-person classes.

Six Pack License Certification - Operator Uninspected Passenger Vessel study guide

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START OUPV CAPTAIN QUIZ

OUPV Test Day Checklist

✓Valid Photo ID
✓TWIC Card
✓Exam Appointment Confirmation
✓Plotting Tools (Dividers/Rulers)
✓Simple Calculator
✓Sharpened Pencils
✓Sea Service Forms (if course)
✓Medical Certificate

📄OUPV Practice Test Questions and Answers PDF

Start Your OUPV Exam Prep

Get instant access to free OUPV practice test questions, flashcards, and study guides. Pass your Six Pack License exam on the first try!

OUPV Renewal Requirements

📅

Validity

5 Years

⚓

Sea Service

360 Days

If you lack the required sea service days for OUPV renewal, you can take an open-book renewal exam or complete a renewal refresher course instead.

✅Pros

+Industry-recognized credential boosts your resume
+Higher earning potential (10-20% salary increase on average)
+Demonstrates commitment to professional development
+Opens doors to advanced career opportunities

❌Cons

−Exam preparation requires significant time investment (4-8 weeks)
−Certification fees can be $100-$400+
−May require continuing education to maintain
−Some employers may not require certification

OUPV Questions and Answers

OUPV Renewal: 7 Essential Tips to Know

OUPV 6-Pack Captain License Practice Test PDF (Free Printabl

About the Author

Captain David HarringtonBS Marine Transportation, Master Mariner License, STCW

Master Mariner & Maritime Certification Specialist

Massachusetts Maritime Academy

Captain David Harrington is a US Coast Guard licensed Master Mariner with a Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation from Massachusetts Maritime Academy. He has 22 years of deep-sea and coastal navigation experience aboard commercial vessels and specializes in preparing maritime candidates for USCG licensing exams, STCW certification, dynamic positioning (DPO), and officer-of-the-watch qualifications.

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