USCG Practice Test
Updated October 2026Facts verified Oct 24, 2026 against U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center
Welcome to our comprehensive USCG practice test 2026 prep guide! If you're preparing for an upcoming USCG exam, you've come to the right place. Our specially crafted practice tests and study guides are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in your exam. Practice with the free USCG - United States Coast Guard practice test on PracticeTestGeeks (11 questions with answer explanations).
Whether you're aiming to become a Coast Guard Officer, pass the Auxiliary Exams, or advance in your Coast Guard career, our USCG practice test 2026 resources are here to help you succeed. We understand the challenges of preparing for such a rigorous exam, and our goal is to provide you with the tools and support needed to boost your confidence and achieve your goals.
- On the USCG OUPV Near Coastal exam, candidates must score 90% on Rules of the Road and the Chart Plot module and 70% on the Deck General/Safety and Navigation General modules.[1]
- For a USCG merchant mariner credential with an original lower-level officer endorsement such as OUPV, the Coast Guard charges a $100 evaluation fee, a $95 examination fee and a $45 issuance fee.[2]
- For a USCG merchant mariner credential with an original upper-level (unlimited tonnage) officer endorsement, the Coast Guard charges a $100 evaluation fee, a $110 examination fee and a $45 issuance fee.[2]
- A candidate who fails one or two sections of a USCG license exam may retest those sections twice within 3 months, while failing three or more sections requires a complete re-examination.[3]
- A USCG Merchant Mariner Credential is valid for 5 years from the date of issuance.[4]
- A USCG Merchant Mariner Credential can be renewed at any time while it is valid and for up to 1 year after it expires.[5]
- USCG merchant mariner exams are taken in person at a Coast Guard Regional Examination Center or Monitoring Unit, and only mariners with a scheduled appointment may test.[6]
- Applicants for a USCG OUPV Near Coastal endorsement need at least 12 months of experience operating vessels, including at least 3 months on ocean or near-coastal waters.[7]
Numbers in brackets link to the official sources listed under Sources & last verified. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
USCG Exam at a Glance
| Item | Detail | Source · Verified |
|---|---|---|
| Passing score (OUPV Near Coastal (ONC07)) | 90% Rules of the Road and Chart Plot; 70% other modules[1] | U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center · Oct 20, 2026 |
| Exam fee (Lower-level officer endorsement (incl. OUPV)) | $95 exam fee ($100 evaluation + $45 issuance)[2] | ecfr.gov · Oct 24, 2026 |
| Exam fee (Upper-level officer endorsement) | $110 exam fee ($100 evaluation + $45 issuance)[2] | ecfr.gov · Oct 24, 2026 |
| Retake policy | Fail 1–2 sections: 2 retests within 3 months; fail 3+: full re-exam[3] | ecfr.gov · Oct 24, 2026 |
| Validity | 5 years[4] | ecfr.gov · Oct 24, 2026 |
| Renewal | Renew any time while valid or up to 1 year after expiry[5] | ecfr.gov · Oct 24, 2026 |
| Delivery | In person at a USCG Regional Exam Center (printed modules, appointment only)[6] | U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center · Oct 24, 2026 |
| Eligibility (OUPV Near Coastal (ONC07)) | 12 months vessel experience incl. 3 months ocean/near-coastal[7] | ecfr.gov · Oct 24, 2026 |
| Registration deadline | Book at least 2 business days ahead[8] | U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center · Oct 20, 2026 |
| Testing window | All exams within 1 year of approval[3] | ecfr.gov · Oct 24, 2026 |
What changed for USCG in 2026
- Jan 26, 2026: The NMC launched its new online Application Submission and Additional Information Portal (ASAP) and a redesigned website on January 26, 2026.[9]
Free USCG - United States Coast Guard Study Tools
Interactive USCG - United States Coast Guard resources on PracticeTestGeeks, free to start:
- Free USCG Deck Side Safety Questions and Answers — 11 questions with instant scoring and answer explanations
- USCG - United States Coast Guard flashcards — review key terms and concepts card by card
- USCG - United States Coast Guard study guide — topic-by-topic overview of what the exam covers
- USCG - United States Coast Guard cheat sheet — one-page printable summary for last-minute review
According to U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center, “Q100- Rules of the Road: Inland and International 50 90 Q170- Deck General/Safety 50 70 Q171- Navigation General: Near Coastal 50 70 Q172- Navigation Problems: Chart Plot 10 90”[1]
USCG Practice Test Questions
Prepare for the USCG - United States Coast Guard exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
USCG Deck Side Safety
USCG Exam Questions covering Deck Side Safety. Master USCG Test concepts for certification prep.
USCG General Engineering
Free USCG Practice Test featuring General Engineering. Improve your USCG Exam score with mock test prep.
USCG Cargo Operations and Stability
USCG Mock Exam on Cargo Operations and Stability. USCG Study Guide questions to pass on your first try.
USCG Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
USCG Test Prep for Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting. Practice USCG Quiz questions and boost your score.
USCG Marine Communications and GMDSS
USCG Questions and Answers on Marine Communications and GMDSS. Free USCG practice for exam readiness.
USCG Marine Environmental Protection
USCG Mock Test covering Marine Environmental Protection. Online USCG Test practice with instant feedback.
USCG Meteorology and Weather
Free USCG Quiz on Meteorology and Weather. USCG Exam prep questions with detailed explanations.
Worked examples: how to reason through USCG questions
These are practice questions written for this site, not questions from the real exam. Each explanation shows why the right answer is right and why the others are wrong.
Example 1
Question: In a refrigeration system, what is the role of the expansion valve?
- Compresses the refrigerant to raise its pressure
- Reduces refrigerant pressure to cause it to cool and absorb heat
- Condenses refrigerant vapor into liquid
- Circulates refrigerant throughout the system
Answer: B. Reduces refrigerant pressure to cause it to cool and absorb heat
Explanation:
The expansion valve drops the pressure of the liquid refrigerant. That pressure drop makes the refrigerant expand and turn cold, so it can absorb heat in the evaporator. That is why the option about reducing pressure to cool and absorb heat is correct.
Raising pressure is the job of the compressor, so that option describes the wrong component. Condensing vapor into liquid happens in the condenser. Circulating refrigerant through the system is the overall work of the compressor and the loop, not the valve.
Rule to remember: follow the refrigerant around the loop. The compressor raises pressure, the condenser turns vapor to liquid, the expansion valve drops pressure, and the evaporator absorbs heat.
Example 2
Question: What is the significance of the Plimsoll mark on a vessel?
- It indicates the vessel's maximum speed
- It shows the legal maximum load lines for different conditions and seasons
- It marks the location of the bilge keel
- It identifies the vessel's registration port
Answer: B. It shows the legal maximum load lines for different conditions and seasons
Explanation:
The Plimsoll mark, also called the load line mark, shows how deep a vessel may legally sit in the water for different conditions and seasons. That makes the option about legal maximum load lines correct.
It says nothing about maximum speed, which depends on the hull, engine and conditions. It does not mark the bilge keel, which is a structural fitting below the waterline. It also does not identify the registration port, which is shown in the vessel's name and port markings on the hull.
Rule to remember: the load line limits how much you may load, so it protects freeboard and reserve buoyancy. It is about loading, not speed, structure or registry.
Example 3
Question: The sizing of tubing is ____.
- cross-section area
- allowed working pressure
- nominal outside diameter
- nominal inside diameter
Answer: C. nominal outside diameter
Explanation:
Tubing is sized by its nominal outside diameter. That is the dimension that matters when you choose fittings, clamps and tools, because they grip the outside of the tube.
Cross-section area is a result of the dimensions, not the sizing convention. Allowed working pressure is a rating, and it depends on wall thickness and material rather than naming the size. Nominal inside diameter is the wrong choice here, because it is how pipe is commonly described, not tubing.
Rule to remember: tubing is measured by the outside, and the wall thickness then sets the inside diameter and the pressure rating. Pipe is the one usually called out by nominal inside size.
How to use these practice tests
Start by reading the official National Maritime Center material for your endorsement, so you know which modules you must sit. Then take the practice sets in an order that matches your weak spots, not the page order.
Begin with Navigation Rules and Regulations, since Rules of the Road carries the higher passing score of 90%. Work through it slowly and write down the reason for every miss, not only the correct letter. Repeat the set until you can explain each answer without looking.
Next, move through Deck Side Safety, Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting, Marine Environmental Protection, Meteorology and Weather, Search and Rescue, and Marine Communications and GMDSS. Take them in short sessions. After each, reread the matching official reference for any topic you missed.
If you work on the engineering side, add General Engineering and Cargo Operations and Stability.
Chart plotting is practised on paper with real plotting tools, so do that alongside the question sets. In the last days, mix several sets in a single sitting to copy the pressure of a printed exam. Book your appointment early enough to leave room for a retest within the allowed window.
Key Takeaways:
Free USCG Practice Test Online
- Our USCG practice test prep guide offers comprehensive resources for exam preparation.
- Use our specially crafted practice tests and study guides to enhance your knowledge and skills.
- Learn valuable tips and techniques for effective exam preparation and time management.
- Navigate through our USCG practice tests to gauge your readiness and identify areas of improvement.
- Our comprehensive USCG study guides cover all essential topics tested in the exam, providing in-depth explanations and practice questions.
USCG Exam Preparation Tips and Techniques
Preparing for the USCG exam requires a strategic approach that goes beyond rote memorization. To help you optimize your study routine and achieve success, we have compiled valuable tips and techniques that will enhance your USCG test preparation. By following these guidelines, you'll be better equipped to tackle the exam with confidence.
1. Establish a Study Schedule
Effective time management is crucial when preparing for any exam. Create a study schedule that provides dedicated time for studying each day. This will help you stay organized, prioritize your tasks, and ensure you cover all the necessary topics.
2. Use USCG Practice Tests
Practice tests are invaluable resources for exam preparation. They allow you to familiarize yourself with the format, difficulty level, and types of questions that may appear on the actual USCG exam. Take advantage of our USCG practice tests to assess your knowledge and identify areas that require further study.
3. Focus on Key Topics
The USCG exam covers a wide range of topics, but certain areas are typically emphasized more than others. Pay attention to these key topics, such as maritime safety, navigation rules, and vessel inspection, and ensure you allocate more time to their study. Reviewing past exam papers can provide insights into the exam's focus areas.
4. Use Effective Study Techniques
Simply reading and highlighting text may not be the most efficient way to retain information. Experiment with different study techniques, such as active reading, summarizing key points, creating flashcards, or teaching the material to someone else. Find what works best for you and incorporate these techniques into your study routine.
5. Seek Additional Resources
Supplement your USCG exam prep with additional resources, such as textbooks, online courses, and study guides. These resources can provide further explanations, examples, and practice questions to reinforce your understanding and better prepare you for the exam.
"The will to succeed is important, but what's more important is the will to prepare." - Bobby Knight
By incorporating these tips and techniques into your USCG exam preparation, you'll be on the path to success. Remember to stay focused, maintain a positive mindset, and use all available resources to ace your USCG exam.
Navigating the USCG Practice Tests
When preparing for the USCG exam, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the format and content of the test. Our USCG practice exams and online tests are designed to replicate the actual exam experience, allowing you to assess your knowledge and readiness. In this section, we will guide you through the process of using our practice tests effectively.
Accessing and Taking the Tests
Accessing our USCG practice exams and online tests is simple and convenient. Firstly, you need to create an account on our platform and log in using your credentials. Once you are logged in, you will have access to a variety of practice tests based on different USCG topics and levels of difficulty.
When taking the practice tests, make sure to allocate sufficient time and create a distraction-free environment. Treat each practice test as a simulation of the actual USCG exam to gauge your performance accurately.
Reviewing Your Results
After completing a practice test, it is crucial to review your results thoroughly. Our platform provides a detailed breakdown of your performance, highlighting the areas where you excelled and areas that need improvement. This feedback is invaluable in identifying your strengths and weaknesses and directing your further study efforts.
Take the time to analyze the questions you answered incorrectly, and make note of the concepts or topics that require additional attention. This review process will help you focus your studying effectively and ensure you are making progress.
Identifying Areas of Improvement
By regularly taking our USCG practice exams and online tests, you can identify specific areas where you need improvement. Our platform tracks your progress over time, allowing you to monitor your growth and development. This data-driven approach enables you to address your weaknesses and focus on enhancing your knowledge and skills in those particular areas.
As you continue to practice and refine your understanding, you will gain confidence in your abilities and be better prepared for the challenges of the actual USCG exam.
Remember, our USCG practice tests are designed to supplement your study efforts. Use them as a tool to assess your progress, identify areas of improvement, and enhance your overall exam preparation strategy.
To enhance your understanding of this section, refer to the comprehensive table below.
| Process | Steps |
|---|---|
| Accessing the tests | Create an account and log in to our platform. Choose the desired USCG practice test. |
| Taking the tests | Allocate dedicated time and create a distraction-free environment to simulate the actual USCG exam experience. |
| Reviewing your results | Analyze your performance, review the questions answered incorrectly, and identify areas that need improvement. |
| Identifying areas of improvement | Use our platform's tracking features to monitor your progress and focus on enhancing your knowledge in specific areas. |
Continue reading to explore our comprehensive USCG study guides in the next section.
Comprehensive USCG Study Guides
When it comes to preparing for the USCG exam, having access to comprehensive study guides is essential. Our USCG study guides are carefully crafted to cover all the essential topics and knowledge areas that are tested in the exam. From maritime safety to navigation rules, our study guides provide in-depth explanations, examples, and practice questions to reinforce your understanding and retention of key concepts.
Each study guide is designed to provide you with a structured and systematic approach to studying. With clear and concise content, you can easily navigate through different topics, ensuring that no important aspect of the exam is overlooked. Our study guides are organized in a logical manner, making it easier for you to follow along and track your progress.
One of the key features of our study guides is the inclusion of practice questions. These questions are strategically placed throughout the guide to test your knowledge and comprehension of the material. By actively engaging in these practice questions, you can identify areas of weakness and focus your efforts on improving in those specific areas. This targeted approach allows for efficient and effective studying, maximizing your chances of success on the USCG exam.
Moreover, our study guides are designed to accommodate different learning styles. Whether you prefer visual aids, detailed explanations, or practical examples, our study guides cater to your individual preferences. With a variety of resources at your disposal, you can approach your study sessions in a way that suits you best.
By using our comprehensive USCG study guides, you'll gain the knowledge and confidence you need to excel in your USCG exam. Whether you're a first-time test-taker or looking to improve your score, our study guides are your valuable companion throughout your exam preparation.
| Benefits of our USCG Study Guides | Why Choose our Study Guides? |
|---|---|
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Assess Your Knowledge and Understanding
Coast Guard Practice Questions
As part of our USCG practice test prep guide, we have curated a diverse collection of Coast Guard practice questions to help you assess your knowledge and application of important Coast Guard concepts. These practice questions cover a wide range of topics, enabling you to test yourself on various aspects of USCG regulations, procedures, and protocols.
Our Coast Guard practice questions are carefully designed to evaluate your understanding of key Coast Guard concepts. By answering these questions, you'll be able to gauge your knowledge across different subject areas, from vessel operations and safety to emergency response and maritime law.
By taking our USCG quiz, you'll gain valuable insights into your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to focus your study efforts on areas that require improvement. Whether you're preparing for the USCG exam or seeking to enhance your knowledge on Coast Guard practices, our practice questions will provide you with an effective tool for self-assessment.
Interactive Learning Experience
Our Coast Guard practice questions provide an interactive learning experience that simulates the actual exam environment. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to challenge your critical thinking skills and measure your ability to apply Coast Guard regulations to real-life scenarios.
"The best way to strengthen your understanding of Coast Guard practices is through active engagement with practice questions that mirror real-world situations."
By confronting these scenarios and evaluating your responses, you'll develop the ability to analyze complex situations, make informed decisions, and apply USCG protocols effectively. Our practice questions will enable you with the practical knowledge and problem-solving skills necessary for success in the USCG exam.
To get started with our Coast Guard practice questions, simply access our USCG practice test prep guide and immerse yourself in a comprehensive and interactive USCG learning experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our comprehensive USCG practice test prep guide offers the necessary resources for successful USCG test preparation. With our practice tests, study guides, and practice questions, you can strengthen your knowledge, build confidence, and increase your chances of achieving a high score on the USCG exam. Start your journey towards success today.
Our practice tests are specially designed to simulate the actual USCG exam experience and cover all essential topics. By taking these tests, you'll be familiarizing yourself with the test format and identifying areas of improvement. Our study guides provide in-depth explanations and examples, ensuring a thorough understanding of key concepts tested in the USCG exam.
In addition, our collection of Coast Guard practice questions is specifically tailored to assess your knowledge and application of important concepts. By testing yourself on various aspects of USCG regulations, procedures, and protocols, you'll be able to gauge your readiness and further enhance your preparation.
With our USCG test preparation resources, you'll be well-equipped to navigate through the exam confidently and achieve your desired results. Don't miss out on the opportunity to excel in your USCG exam. Start using our practice tests, study guides, and practice questions today!
FAQ
How can the USCG practice tests and study guides help me with my upcoming exam?
Our USCG practice tests and study guides are specifically designed to enhance your exam preparation. The practice tests simulate the actual USCG exam experience, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the test format and assess your readiness. Our study guides cover all the essential topics and knowledge areas tested in the exam, providing in-depth explanations and examples to reinforce your understanding.
Can I access and take the USCG practice tests online?
Absolutely! Our USCG practice tests are available for online access. You can take these tests at your convenience, anywhere and anytime, using any device with internet access. This flexibility allows you to fit your practice sessions into your busy schedule while still maximizing your exam preparation.
How can I review my results and identify areas of improvement?
After completing each practice test, you will receive detailed feedback on your performance. You can review your correct and incorrect answers, allowing you to identify your strengths and areas that require further improvement. This comprehensive analysis will guide you on where to focus your study efforts, ensuring that you make the most out of your preparation.
- +Validates your knowledge and skills objectively
- +Increases job market competitiveness
- +Provides structured learning goals
- +Networking opportunities with other certified professionals
- −Study materials can be expensive
- −Exam anxiety can affect performance
- −Requires dedicated preparation time
- −Retake fees apply if you don't pass
Sample USCG - United States Coast Guard Practice Questions
Try these questions from our free USCG - United States Coast Guard practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
A vessel is mooring alongside a pier. Who is responsible for ensuring mooring lines are handled safely?
- A. The port authority agent
- B. The officer in charge of deck operations
- C. The pilot only
- D. The shoreside line handler exclusively
Answer: B. The officer in charge of deck operations
The officer in charge of deck operations is responsible for the safe handling of mooring lines and the safety of deck crew during mooring.
Which type of fire extinguisher is most appropriate for a Class C (electrical) fire?
- A. Water extinguisher
- B. Dry chemical or CO2 extinguisher
- C. Foam extinguisher
- D. Halon extinguisher only
Answer: B. Dry chemical or CO2 extinguisher
CO2 and dry chemical extinguishers are non-conductive and safe for Class C electrical fires; water and foam conduct electricity and can electrocute the operator.
A vessel crew member notices a safety guard has been removed from a deck winch. What is the appropriate action?
- A. Continue operating the winch carefully
- B. Stop operations, tag the winch out-of-service, and report to the officer in charge
- C. Replace the guard after the current operation is complete
- D. Post a warning sign and allow other experienced crew to use it
Answer: B. Stop operations, tag the winch out-of-service, and report to the officer in charge
Machinery with missing guards must be immediately taken out of service, tagged, and reported — using unguarded machinery is a USCG and OSHA violation.
What is the required content of a Garbage Management Plan under MARPOL Annex V?
- A. A list of approved dumping sites only
- B. Written procedures for minimizing, collecting, storing, and disposing of garbage aboard the vessel
- C. A record of all garbage weighed
- D. Insurance coverage for spills
Answer: B. Written procedures for minimizing, collecting, storing, and disposing of garbage aboard the vessel
A Garbage Management Plan must describe procedures for minimizing, collecting, storing, processing, and disposing of garbage, and must assign responsibility for the plan's implementation.
Take the full USCG - United States Coast Guard practice test
⚓ What does one short blast mean under the Inland Navigation Rules?
Under Inland Rule 34, a power-driven vessel sounding one short blast in a meeting or crossing situation means "I intend to leave you on my port side." Two short blasts mean starboard, and three mean "I am operating astern propulsion."
START NAV RULES PRACTICE TEST📯 What is the danger or doubt signal in the Rules of the Road?
At least five short and rapid blasts on the whistle (Rule 34(d)). A vessel sounds it when it does not understand the other vessel's intentions or doubts that enough action is being taken to avoid collision.
START NAV RULES PRACTICE TEST🔥 What extinguisher do you use on a Class C electrical fire aboard ship?
Use a non-conductive agent such as CO2 or dry chemical. Water and foam conduct electricity and can shock the operator, so de-energize the circuit first whenever possible.
START FIREFIGHTING PRACTICE TEST🛢️ What is a Class B fire on a vessel?
A Class B fire involves flammable liquids and greases such as fuel oil, lube oil, and paint. It is fought by smothering, using foam, CO2, or dry chemical; a solid water stream can spread burning liquid.
START FIREFIGHTING PRACTICE TEST📻 Which VHF channel is used for distress, safety, and calling?
VHF channel 16 (156.800 MHz) is the international voice channel for distress, safety, and calling. VHF channel 70 is reserved for Digital Selective Calling (DSC) under GMDSS.
START GMDSS PRACTICE TEST🌊 Can plastics be thrown overboard under MARPOL Annex V?
No. MARPOL Annex V prohibits discharging any plastics into the sea, including synthetic ropes, fishing nets, and plastic garbage bags. Plastics must be kept aboard and landed at a port reception facility.
START MARPOL PRACTICE TEST🌀 What is Buys Ballot's Law for finding a low-pressure center?
In the Northern Hemisphere, if you stand with your back to the wind, the low-pressure center lies to your left and slightly forward. In the Southern Hemisphere it lies to your right.
START WEATHER PRACTICE TEST🛥️ What is a USCG six-pack (OUPV) captain's license?
The OUPV endorsement lets you carry six or fewer paying passengers on uninspected vessels under 100 GRT. You must be at least 18, and the near-coastal route needs 12 months of experience, including 3 months on ocean or near-coastal waters.
START NAV RULES PRACTICE TEST💵 How much does a USCG license exam cost?
Under 46 CFR 10.219, an original upper-level officer endorsement costs $100 evaluation, $110 examination, and $45 issuance. A lower-level officer endorsement costs $100, $95, and $45.
START USCG PRACTICE TEST🔁 What happens if you fail sections of the USCG license exam?
If you fail one or two sections, you may retest them twice within the next 3 months. If you fail three or more sections, you must retake the complete examination (46 CFR 11.217).
START USCG PRACTICE TESTOfficial Resources
- USCG National Maritime Center (NMC) processes Merchant Mariner Credential applications and publishes exam modules and fee payment instructions.
- USCG Navigation Center: Amalgamated Navigation Rules gives the official International and Inland Rules of the Road text tested on deck exams.
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR) hosts 46 CFR Parts 10 and 11, which set credential fees, age limits, and exam retest rules.
What topics are covered in the USCG study guides?
Our USCG study guides cover a wide range of topics that are essential for the USCG exam. These include maritime safety, navigation rules, vessel operations, weather and climate, marine pollution prevention, search and rescue procedures, and much more. Each topic is explained in-depth and supported by examples and practice questions to reinforce your understanding and knowledge retention.
How can the Coast Guard practice questions benefit me?
Our collection of Coast Guard practice questions is a valuable resource for testing and assessing your knowledge of important Coast Guard concepts. By trying these practice questions, you can evaluate your understanding and application of USCG regulations, procedures, and protocols. This will help you identify any gaps in your knowledge and focus your study efforts on areas that may need improvement.
Sources & last verified
- U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center — passing score (official source). “Q100- Rules of the Road: Inland and International 50 90 Q170- Deck General/Safety 50 70 Q171- Navigation General: Near Coastal 50 70 Q172- Navigation Problems:…” Verified Oct 20, 2026.
- ecfr.gov — exam fee (official source). “MMC with officer endorsement: Original: Upper level 1 $100 $110 $45 Lower level 2 100 95 45” Verified Oct 24, 2026 · source checked Oct 24, 2026.
- ecfr.gov — retake policy, testing window (official source). “If an applicant fails one or two sections of an examination, the applicant may be retested twice on these sections during the next 3 months.” Verified Oct 24, 2026 · source checked Oct 24, 2026.
- ecfr.gov — validity (official source). “( a ) An MMC is valid for a term of 5 years from the date of issuance.” Verified Oct 24, 2026 · source checked Oct 24, 2026.
- ecfr.gov — renewal (official source). “( b ) A credential may be renewed at any time during its validity and for 1 year after expiration.” Verified Oct 24, 2026 · source checked Oct 24, 2026.
- U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center — delivery (official source). “ONLY mariners with a scheduled appointment will be permitted to test.” Verified Oct 24, 2026 · source checked Oct 24, 2026.
- ecfr.gov — eligibility (official source). “For an endorsement as OUPV on near-coastal waters, an applicant must have a minimum of 12 months of experience in the operation of vessels, including…” Verified Oct 24, 2026 · source checked Oct 24, 2026.
- U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center — registration deadline (official source). “Yes, an examination appointment must be scheduled at least 2 business days in advance.” Verified Oct 20, 2026.
- U.S. Coast Guard National Maritime Center — other (official source). “The National Maritime Center (NMC) will officially launch its new online Application Submission and Additional Information Portal (ASAP) and redesigned website on Monday January 26,…” Verified Oct 20, 2026.
How we verify: editorial & fact-checking policy. Report an error: contact us.
How this page was made: written with AI tools and published by Nathan Beja, founder of Practice Test Geeks, who is responsible for its content. Exam facts are checked against the official sources listed below. Not reviewed by a subject-matter expert. Editorial policy
Sources & references
Exam facts on this page (fees, format, dates, passing scores) are checked against these official sources; the date is our last check. Editorial policy
- dco.uscg.mil — Test delivery, registration deadline, passing score, exam information · verified Oct 2026
- ecfr.gov — Eligibility, score validity, retake policy, test dates, renewal, fees · verified Oct 2026