OUPV Rules and Regulations 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the maximum number of passengers an OUPV (six-pack) license allows you to carry?
- 12 passengers
- 6 passengers (Correct answer)
- 20 passengers
- No limit for vessels under 100 gross tons
Correct answer: 6 passengers
An OUPV license allows carrying a maximum of 6 passengers for hire.
The OUPV license (46 CFR Part 15) authorizes the holder to operate uninspected passenger vessels carrying 6 or fewer passengers for hire. If more than 6 passengers are needed, a Master license and vessel inspection are required.
Question 2: What are the sea service requirements for an original OUPV license?
- No sea time required
- 360 days of documented sea service, with 90 days in the last 3 years (Correct answer)
- 1,000 days at sea
- Only a written exam is required
Correct answer: 360 days of documented sea service, with 90 days in the last 3 years
An original OUPV license requires 360 days of sea service, with at least 90 of those days occurring within the past 3 years.
Under 46 CFR 11.467, an original OUPV license requires 360 days of sea service (8 hours = 1 day), with at least 90 days within the past 3 years. Applicants must also pass a physical exam, drug test, background check, and the USCG written examination.
Question 3: Under what circumstances can the Coast Guard suspend or revoke an OUPV license?
- Only for criminal activity unrelated to boating
- For misconduct, negligence, incompetence, violation of regulations, use of drugs or alcohol, or conviction of certain offenses (Correct answer)
- Licenses cannot be revoked once issued
- Only if the vessel sinks
Correct answer: For misconduct, negligence, incompetence, violation of regulations, use of drugs or alcohol, or conviction of certain offenses
The USCG can suspend or revoke an OUPV license for professional misconduct, negligence, incompetence, regulatory violations, substance abuse, or conviction of serious offenses.
Under 46 USC Chapter 77 and 46 CFR Part 5, the Coast Guard may take action for: misconduct, negligence, incompetence, violation of regulations, use of dangerous drugs, conviction of criminal offenses, or operating under the influence. Penalties range from warning to permanent revocation.
Question 4: What pollution regulations apply to OUPV vessels regarding discharge of oil or oily waste?
- Small vessels are exempt from pollution regulations
- No oil or oily waste may be discharged into navigable waters of the United States (Correct answer)
- A small amount of discharge is acceptable
- Regulations only apply in designated marine sanctuaries
Correct answer: No oil or oily waste may be discharged into navigable waters of the United States
Federal law prohibits the discharge of oil or oily waste into navigable U.S. waters. All vessels must comply.
The Clean Water Act and MARPOL make it illegal to discharge oil or oily waste into navigable waters. OUPV vessels must display an oil discharge placard. Penalties include fines up to 25,000 dollars per day. All spills must be reported to the National Response Center.
Question 5: How often must an OUPV license be renewed?
- Every 10 years
- Every 5 years (Correct answer)
- Every year
- It never expires
Correct answer: Every 5 years
OUPV licenses must be renewed every 5 years, requiring proof of sea service, physical exam, drug test, and completion of any required refresher courses.
Under 46 CFR 10.227, USCG Merchant Mariner Credentials must be renewed every 5 years. Renewal requires at least 360 days of sea service in the previous 5 years (or a refresher course), physical examination, drug test, and TWIC if required.
Question 6: What is the USCG requirement for carrying a TWIC for OUPV operators?
- TWIC is never required for OUPV operators
- TWIC may be required when operating in or near regulated facilities and secure port areas (Correct answer)
- TWIC is only for airline personnel
- TWIC replaces the OUPV license
Correct answer: TWIC may be required when operating in or near regulated facilities and secure port areas
OUPV operators may need a TWIC when accessing regulated facilities, MARSEC-controlled areas, or certain port facilities.
The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) is required for unescorted access to secure areas of MTSA-regulated facilities and vessels. OUPV operators who regularly access regulated port facilities will need one. TWIC is issued by TSA and valid for 5 years.
OUPV Rules and Regulations 2
What is the maximum number of passengers an OUPV (six-pack) license allows you to carry?